Richard Joseph Kelly

Touchet, WA - On April 4, 2026, Richard "Dick" Kelly passed away at age 82, surrounded by his family. The eldest of three children born to Joseph "Joe" and Margaret Kelly, Dick grew up on the family farm in Lowden, Washington. After high school, he studied for two years at Fresno State College before returning to the Walla Walla Valley, later earning a degree in Agriculture Business from Central Washington University. In the summer of 1984, Dick married Norma, and together they raised a blended family of four children, seven grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

Dick took immense pride in being known as a good cowboy, having a good horse, and his deep love for his family. He was devoted to rodeo -- cherishing the animals, competition, and lifestyle -- and hosted team roping and barrel racing events that attracted ropers and runners from near and far.

Alongside his grandfather Roy and father Joe, Dick competed in various Pony Express teams, enjoyed galloping racehorses, team roping, calf roping, and bulldogging with some of the greatest of his time. He was an NRA champion and a Columbia River Circuit finalist; he was also a PRCA gold card member. For thirty years, Dick also broadcast live coverage of the Pendleton Round-Up on KUMA radio. He retired from Cascade Natural Gas in 2014 after over three decades of service.

In his later years, Dick swapped riding horses for a John Deere Gator, often seen along the arena fence sharing both sought-after and unsolicited advice. Watching The Cowboy Channel became part of his daily routine, keeping him connected to the world of rodeo and future generations.

Dick was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Margaret Kelly. He is survived by his wife Norma of 41 years, four children -- Nichole Kelly; Kim (Scott) Moore; Jason (Lori) Kelly; and Kasey Kelty -- as well as his sister Linda Kelly, brother Greg (Susan) Kelly, and his first wife Mary Chandler. He also leaves behind seven grandchildren Brandon Kelty, Tyler Moore, Jenna Moore, Victoria Kelly, Avery Oliphant, Payden Henry, and Alexis Kelly; great-grandsons Romeo Kelty and Bex Moore; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and close friends.

A celebration of life will be held at the Walla Walla Wagon Wheelers Club House, 378 S. Hussey Street, Walla Walla, Washington, on Sunday, April 19, 2026, at 2:00 p.m.

Memorial contributions in Dick's name may be directed to the Pendleton Round-Up Hall of Fame at P.O. Box 609, Pendleton, OR 97801, or delivered in person to their office at 1114 SE Court Avenue, Pendleton, OR 97801.