Kelly Oehlke, 53, of Goliad, Texas, entered into the arms of her Savior on Tuesday, July 28, 2026. She was born on April 23, 1973, in Victoria, Texas, to Peggy Bosse and the late John Dearman.
Some people leave behind accomplishments. Others leave behind possessions. Kelly left behind something far greater, a legacy of faith, unconditional love, humility, and selfless service. She loved Jesus with all her heart and lived out her faith every single day. She never desired recognition or praise for the countless ways she cared for others. If someone needed help, encouragement, a warm meal, a listening ear, or simply someone to love them, Kelly was there. She gave of herself freely because that was simply who she was.
Kelly faithfully volunteered her time to teach children and lovingly create crafts for Vacation Bible School for many years. She found great joy in sharing God’s love with children, serving with humility and a willing heart. Her church family was deeply treasured, and her faith remained the firm foundation of her life.
She found happiness in God’s simple blessings. Kelly loved quilting, gardening, crafting, hunting, fishing, and caring for animals. She was sure that each of her grandchildren received a special quilt lovingly crafted just for them. Many of her quilts found their way to various charities and people in need.
She had a remarkable gift in the kitchen and was known by family and friends as the absolute best cook. Many of her dishes became legendary, but it wasn’t the food people remembered most, it was the love she poured into every meal she prepared.
Above everything else, Kelly treasured her family. She and her husband built a home where Jesus was always at the center, and where love, kindness, and compassion were freely given. She was a devoted wife, a loving daughter, a caring mother, a cherished sister, and the most incredible Oma. Her grandchildren were the joy of her heart. Nothing made her happier than spending time with them, celebrating their milestones, comforting their hurts, and reminding them every chance she had just how deeply they were loved.
Kelly’s greatest legacy will forever be the example she set for others. She taught those around her that true greatness is found in serving others, loving without conditions, giving without expecting anything in return, and trusting God through every season of life. Her quiet faith spoke louder than words ever could, and her influence will continue to live on in the lives of her children, grandchildren, family, friends, and everyone blessed enough to know her.
Kelly faced every challenge with remarkable strength, grace, and unwavering faith. Even in her hardest moments, she continued to trust God’s plan. Surrounded by the family she loved so dearly, she peacefully entered into eternal life, where she was welcomed home by her Lord and Savior. Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort knowing she is healed, whole, and forever at peace in His presence.
Kelly’s life was never about herself. It was about her faith, her family, and serving others with a humble heart. Though she will be deeply missed every day, her love, her example, and her unwavering faith will continue to live on in all who knew her. The world is better because she was in it, and Heaven is sweeter because she is home.
Kelly is survived by her devoted husband of 28 years, Stanley Oehlke; her children, Brittany, Joshua (Kayla), A.J. (Julie), and Garrett (Taylor); her beloved grandchildren Peyton, Talon, Braxton, Ember, River, Rhett, RaeLynn, Kimber, and Levi, who is expected to arrive soon. She is also survived by her mother Peggy Bosse, her siblings, J.J. & Lori Dearman, Robin & Jeremy Leatherwood, and Amanda Vasquez, along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and countless friends whose lives were forever touched by her love.
She was preceded in death by her father, John Dearman; Grandma and Grandpa Arnold; and Grandma and Grandpa Dearman, and her granddaughter Kylie.
Funeral services were held August 1 2026.
In keeping with Kelly’s compassionate spirit, and in lieu of flowers, she requested that memorial donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.
You can’t go back and change the beginning, but you can start where you are and change the ending.