SPARTA - John W. Kelley, Sr., age 68, of Sparta, Illinois, passed away on Tuesday, November 19, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on September 10, 1957, to the late Charles H. Kelley, Sr. and Mary H. (Grimm) Farthing.

John was the former owner and operator of Kelley Towing & Salvage in Sparta, IL and ACE Towing in Belleville, IL. Throughout his life, he was known for his strong work ethic, his willingness to help anyone in need, and his deep compassion for others. After becoming disabled, John became a familiar and beloved figure in the community for repairing bicycles for local children - never accepting anything in return. His quiet acts of service left a lasting impact on countless families.

John's greatest source of hope was his faith in his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and he firmly believed in the promise of life everlasting.

He is survived by his former wife, Debbie Zulker; his children, John W. Kelley, Jr. (Janet) and Christina Kelley, both of Port St. Lucie, FL; and his cherished grandchildren, Allison Kelley, Adriana Morocho, Luis Morocho, Jr., all of Port St. Lucie, FL, and Thomas Harmon, Jr. of Belleville, IL.

He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Deborah Kelley of Sparta, IL; nephews Charles Kelley (Amy) and Michael Kelley (Carrie), both of Sparta, IL; as well as extended family members and friends who will forever remember his kindness and generosity.

John was preceded in death by his parents, Mary H. Farthing (née Grimm) Kelley and Charles H. Kelley, Sr., and by his brother, Charles H. Kelley, Jr.

A graveside service and interment will be held on Monday, November 24, 2025, at12:00 PM, at Caledonia Cemetery in Sparta, IL, with Rev. Paul Hahn officiating. Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance and celebrate a life lived with humility, service, and love.

May he rest in eternal peace.

Memorials may be given to the American Diabetes Association and can be mailed to Wilson's Funeral Home, P.O. Box 217, Steeleville, IL 62288. To sign the guest book, visit www.wilsonsfuneralhome.net.