Kelly Davis, 81

Kelly was born at Fort Wright and raised in Spokane, Wash., growing up in his family's home on West Euclid. He graduated from North Central High School in 1963, where he was known for both his athletic ability and artistic talent. A gifted athlete, Kelly loved playing baseball and basketball with his brother, Mickey, and others, where he formed many lifelong friendships during his years growing up in Spokane.

Kelly proudly served as a United States Marine during the Vietnam era, where he was stationed at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, as Military Police — an identity he carried with pride throughout his life. He brought the order, physical fitness, sharp presentation and clean-cut look that the Marines taught him for the rest of his life. Kelly later shared his VA educational benefits, allowing his stepson to graduate from college with benefits that he provided, an example of his extremely giving nature. Kelly later earned a degree from Eastern Washington University, reflecting his lifelong appreciation for learning and knowledge.

Many of Kelly’s happiest memories were made during summers spent at his grandparents' lake home on Diamond Lake. As a teenager, he also spent several summers living in Coeur d’Alene with family, including his favorite cousin, Corky, creating lasting memories and friendships.

Kelly loved the arts and performed in the Spokane All-City Chorus throughout junior high and high school. He also played piano in his younger years and was a talented actor who appeared in many high school and college productions, including "Annie Get Your Gun," "Oklahoma!" and other musicals. While attending college, Kelly taught dancing at Arthur Murray Dance Studios. His love for music and films remained with him throughout his life.

Professionally, Kelly worked in sales and later in college recruiting, where his warm charisma and ability to connect with people naturally drew others to him. But beyond any title or profession, Kelly was, at his heart, an artist, avid reader, dancer, historian, inventor, cherished his animals and was an entertainer. He loved drawing and creating art and was especially talented at detailed stenciling work. He often combined his artistic abilities with his wonderful sense of humor, creating comedy sketches, funny promotional advertisements and memorable catchphrases with friends that brought laughter to those around him.

At the center of Kelly’s life was his deep love for his wife, Leta. He cherished their time together dancing (Waltz and swing dancing), laughing, watching movies or simply sitting and talking about life for hours. Their relationship was built on companionship, conversation, affection and genuine friendship. Those who knew Kelly knew how much he loved Leta and how much joy he found simply being by her side. He appreciated the simple moments in life.

Kelly is survived by his loving wife, Leta; his stepson, Tyler; his children, Carlye, Amber, Leslie and Tony; several beloved grandchildren; and many extended family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his son, Michael.

He leaves behind countless memories and a legacy of love, creativity, curiosity, humor, and devotion that will remain deep in the hearts of all who knew him.

    Davis