James Paul Kelley

James “Paul” Kelley was born on August 3, 1956, in Tooele to loving parents Samuel James and Marilyn Annette Smith Kelley. He passed away on April 2, 2025, surrounded by his wife and loving family.

Dad was the rock of our family with a larger-than-life personality. Any room Dad walked into, his presence was immediately felt. Dad would often do things quietly for people, never expecting anything in return.

Dad had a love for many things, such as baseball, hunting, fishing, the Dallas Cowboys, Utah Utes, and his lifelong love of the casino.

Our dad could do anything. He ran businesses, built his own house, and was a master woodworker—making shelves, chairs, and toy chests for his grandchildren, whom he loved unconditionally.

One of Dad’s greatest passions in life was creating memories with his family. Some of those memories include the annual fishing trip to Fish Lake, hunting in the same spot for over 50 years, and backyard barbecues at his home.

Paul is survived by his beautiful wife, Sherri; his sisters, Terri (Kent) Liddiard, Samra (Keary) Workman, and Dawn Hainsworth; his children, Heath (Angie) Kelley, Chris (Heather) Kelley, Kacee (Jerry) Woolsey, Nicholas (Kaitlynn) Bourdos, and Alex (Ashley) Bourdos. He is also survived by 14 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren.

Paul is preceded in death by his parents; his son, Brady Archuleta; and all the animals that he took in over the years (there were many).

A celebration of life will be held to honor Paul on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, at the Allen Barn, 867 N Hale, Grantsville, UT 84029. A visitation will be held from 10–11 a.m., with services to follow.