Kelley Lee Archer went to be with the Lord and the loved ones waiting for him on March 8, 2026, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.
Kelley was born October 18, 1958, in Centerville, Iowa, to Ernest and Agnes (Morgan) Archer. He graduated from Cardinal Community School District in 1977. On September 2, 1979, Kelley married Carol Coy. To this union two children were born, Cassie Archer and Mariah Archer. The couple later divorced.
Kelley spent most of his life working in construction, with his last employer being Turner Concrete. He made many friendships throughout his career. Kelley was truly the life of the party and always enjoyed having fun. One of his greatest joys was being the clown—telling jokes, making people laugh, and bringing smiles to those around him. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, mushroom hunting, watching NASCAR races, and especially loved dirt track racing. Kelley also cherished his trips to Ohio, where he had made many friends over the years. Kelley loved spending time with friends and rarely met a stranger.
He loved his family immensely, especially his mama. His greatest pride and accomplishment in life were his children, Cassie and Mariah, and his two grandchildren, Lauren and Lane. Left to cherish his memory are his daughter, Mariah Archer and husband Randall VanHemert of Ottumwa; his grandchildren, Lauren and Lane Archer; his brother, Lonnie Archer and wife Frances of Drakesville; his sister, Mona Archer of Hillsboro; his significant other, Shelly Groseclose of Selma; and many nieces, nephews, and friends. Kelley was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest and Agnes Archer; his sisters, Debra “Duck” Archer and Jodi Archer; his daughter, Cassie Archer; and his nephew, Jeremy Archer.
Kelley has been cremated per his wished a celebration of life will be held at a later date. Memorials have been established to the family.
Though he will be deeply missed by those who loved him, we find comfort knowing the country roads have taken him home, where he is reunited with those who went before him.
