Jack W. Kelley

After a lifetime of adventures and achievements, Jack W. Kelley passed from this life September 15, 2015 at the age of 84. Having lived what many can only dream, he leaves a legacy in which Tulsan’s can be proud.

Growing up on a rural west Texas ranch, he learned the value of discipline, hard-work and compassion. His loyal nature awarded him a lifetime of successes in business and friendships alike.

After attending high school at Cascia Hall, Jack graduated from Oklahoma State University with degrees in Architectural design and structural engineering in 1954. That same year he won the prestigious Beaux Arts award for his excellence in Architectural design. He later continued graduate work at Cornell University. Never one to shy from a challenge, Jack had a vision of a modern skyline he was determined to realize. He, along with a team of Partners, gave rise to 16 iconic skyscrapers stretching all the way from Spokane, Washington to Ft. Lauderdale Florida. Along with his International Style of architecture, Jack’s trademark was private penthouse dining clubs. He was the driving force behind establishing the Petroleum and Summit Clubs of Tulsa.

After retiring from the development business, Jack’s entrepreneurial spirit fueled a lasting career in the oil industry as well as a passionate interest in underwater archeology. A founding member of the Institute of Nautical Archeology, his work as an explorer led to the discovery of numerous ancient shipwrecks whose artifacts changed our understanding of history and trade.

A lover of life, Jack spent his later years just as busy with his wife of 61 years, Jean R. Kelley. Raising together their young granddaughter and truly enjoying time with family and friends; playing tennis, entertaining, and traveling the world. He found great joy in spending time in his garden and cooking for all. He was an active member of the Tulsa Ballet and Southern Hills Country Club.

Jack will be remembered fondly and greatly missed. He is survived by his daughter Jennifer B. Kelley, his granddaughters Whitney White Perkins, Shelby L. Knowlton and Kelley E. Knowlton. He was preceded in death by his wife Jean R. Kelley and his daughter Karen L. Bohnefeld.

The family will receive friends on Monday September 21st, from 2:00-4:00 in the Ninde Brookside Funeral Home. The funeral service will be held at First United Methodist Church on Tuesday September 22nd, at 11:00.

The family has requested that any memorials be made to the Jack W. Kelley Scholarship fund for the OSU School of Architecture. (26-94230) OSU Foundation, 400 S. Monroe, Stillwater, OK 74074 or www.osugiving.com