Marline Kelley

January 29, 1930 - August 15, 2020

Marline Louise (nee Spille) Kelley, born January 29, 1930 to Herman and Clara Spille in Greenville, Darke County, Ohio, died peacefully at home on August 15, 2020 at the age of 90. Predeceased by parents, brother, Robert Spille, brother-in-law, Stuart Hopkins, mother-in-law, Margaret Kelley, and nephew, Paul Kelley Hopkins. She is survived by husband of 64 years, Bishop Robert W. Kelley; son Kevin and his wife Kaz, granddaughter Samantha; and granddaughters Laura and Catherine Kelley (and their mother Kim Kelley); daughter Kathleen and husband Frank King; sisters-in-law, Jean Hopkins and Deloris Spille; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. She had many friends, who will miss her winning smile, warm and witty personality. Her granddaughters will miss Grammy's Easter egg hunts, playing "kitchen", and reading stories of Peter Rabbit. Marline grew up on the family farm, where they owned the Spille Harness Shop. She graduated in 1948 from Greenville High School, where she participated in the Girls Chorus and A Capella Choir; was editor-in-chief of the Annual and junior class president. After high school she worked at Schmermund jewelry store before going to college in Columbus, Ohio. She returned frequently to Greenville for vacations with family and many class reunions. A lifelong Lutheran, she graduated from Capital University, where she met Robert, who was attending Trinity Lutheran Seminary. A former first grade teacher, church organist, and administrator of Capital University's alumni fund, she also faithfully supported her husband's ministry in western New York and throughout Ohio, living in Euclid, Columbus, Akron, and Powell, Ohio. She was always a loving and supporting Mother to her children and she took great pride in their accomplishments, great and small. With the help of her husband, support of her children and caregivers (Comfort Keepers), she stayed in her beloved Powell home until the end, passing with her husband sleeping beside her. Due to the current health concerns a private church service will be held for the family. A public celebration of Marline's life will be held during safer times. The family suggestions memorial contributions to Clinton Heights Lutheran Church (where she was a longtime member) or Capital University.