Raymond Patrick Kelby

Raymond Patrick Kelby, 70, passed away on March 9, 2026, in Wilson Creek, Washington. Born on July 14, 1955, in Bethesda, Maryland, Raymond was a courageous, hardworking, kind, and loving man who carried a deep ministry of support for those living in isolation.

At the age of 22, he was involved in a car accident in 1977 that left him disabled. In the decades that followed, he remained determined to live an active and meaningful life, becoming a dedicated and valued member of his community. He was lovingly cared for throughout those years by his mother, father, and sister.

Raymond served as an elder and treasurer at the Wilson Creek First Presbyterian Church and as a Commissioner for the Wilson Creek Cemetery District #2. He previously served on the Grant County Health Board in Ephrata, Washington, and volunteered with Post 28 in Ephrata, continuing the service his father, a retired veteran, had provided before his passing in 2005. Through Post 28, he supported numerous fundraising efforts that provided scholarships for nursing education.

A man of many talents, Raymond started a picture framing business, built handcrafted wooden garden windmills, and developed a love for art, learning to paint with acrylics and ink. He enjoyed painting pictures and decorating pumpkins, large and small, for Halloween. He once accepted the task of refinishing antique furniture for the Davenport courthouse after pieces were damaged in a fire. He also shared his faith by co-leading the youth group at the First Presbyterian Church in Wilson Creek alongside Kathy Bohnet. Known for his easygoing nature and warm spirit, Raymond was well liked and respected throughout the community. His kindness, creativity, and dedication to service touched many lives.

He is survived by his mother, Natsuyo Kelby; his sister, Karen Kauffman; his niece, Amanda (Kauffman) Gregory, and her husband, David Gregory; along with numerous extended family members in Washington, Hawaii, and California. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him.