David L. Kelley, 77, of East Moline, IL, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Monday, June 15, 2026, at Trinity UnityPoint, Rock Island, IL. Per his wishes, no services will be held.

David was born March 7, 1949, in Los Angeles, CA, to Robert and Marilyn (Anderson) Kelley. He married Kathleen Anderson, and later married Diana (Jacobs) Kay, whom he married on August 9, 1991, in Silvis, IL.

David graduated from Bradley University with a degree in Manufacturing Engineering and went on to build a career at John Deere. He began working there on June 5, 1967, and retired on October 1, 2009. David had a great work ethic, and after retiring, he started his own business, Competitive Edge Consulting. He also continued working as a contractor for John Deere up until March 2026.

Beyond his career, David was very involved in his community. He served as Alderman of East Moline, IL, and gave his time as a Trustee at Christ United Methodist Church, also in East Moline. Public service came naturally to him; he genuinely cared about community and the people in it.

If you knew David, you knew he was a helper through and through. It didn't matter if you were family, an old friend, or a complete stranger; if you needed a hand, David was the first to offer one. That generosity of spirit was perhaps his most defining quality. David also enjoyed watching United Township High School basketball and softball. At home, he found his greatest joy in time spent with family, especially his grandchildren, who lit up his world. And of course, there was Penny, his beloved furry companion.

David is survived by his wife, Diana; his son, Robert Kelley, of Moline; stepchildren Shawna (Brook) Viktor of Davenport, IA, Keri (Jacob) Bautista of East Moline, and Kylie (Chris) Hambright of East Moline; grandchildren Tristan (Taelor) Lopez, Isaac Bautista, Colton Viktor, Alec Hurtado, James Hambright, Blake Viktor, and Taylor Hambright; his great-grandchild, Eres Bautista; his sister, Angela (Glen) Choben and son Jonathan of Waukesha, WI; and his faithful companion, Penny.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

In lieu of flowers and gifts, the family asks that memorials be made directly to them.