Richard W. "Dick" Kelley Dies

Richard W. "Dick" Kelley, 91, died January 31, 2007, at his home in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He was former President Bill Clinton's step-father.

The former president and his family attended the funeral services on Saturday, February 3rd. Held in the First United Methodist Church, more than 400 people attended.

Kelley had the honor of being the second person to ride in a special hearse. This hearse, owned by Gross Funeral Home's parent company, was the same one to carry former President Gerald Ford to his final resting place.

The hearse, along with the family car, had been made specifically for Ford when he first became critically ill. Once Ford was buried, the cars were brought to Hot Springs, where they had not been used until now.

Kelley was remembered as a dear friend by many. He had a love for life that infected those around him. Golf was one of his favorite past times that he enjoyed with step-son, Bill Clinton.

He met Virginia Clinton at the Oaklawn Race Track in Hot Springs. They married in 1982, sharing a love of gambling and thoroughbred racing. In 1994, Virginia lost her battle with breast cancer. But Kelley had stayed close to the Clinton family, thinking the world of his presidential step-son.

Kelley will be remembered as a WWII vet, an Eagle Scout, and co-owner of Kelley Brokerage, Co., which he operated with his brother, Al.