Twyla Fern (Mercure) Kelley, 75

Twyla Fern (Mercure) Kelley passed away May 29, 2025, in Bend, OR, just a few weeks after celebrating her 75th birthday.

Twyla was born April 21, 1950, in Alliance, NE, to Darwin “Red” and Margaret (Hanna) Mercure. She was raised on the family ranch and attended one-room rural schools near Wood Lake and Brownlee, NE. She graduated from Mullen High School in 1968 and went on to earn her nursingdegreefrom Western Nebraska Community College in Scottsbluff in 1971, becoming a licensed registered nurse.

Twyla dedicated her life to caring for others, with a special passion for pediatric nursing, and supporting children. She was a deeply devoted mother and an active member of her Catholic faith.

In 2006, the day before Thanksgiving, Twyla was seriously injured in a car accident that ended her nursing career. Despite the life-altering impact of her injuries, her faith, love for family, and unwavering spirit remained strong. She continued to be a vital presence in the lives of her loved ones until her health was further challenged by Parkinson’s disease nearly two decades later.

On June 20, 1972, Twyla married John Kelley in Aurora, CO. Together, they raised two children, Jennifer Kelley and Alan Kelley.

Twyla was preceded in death by her parents and by her beloved grandson, Thomas Lane. She is survived by children, Jennifer Kelley and Alan Kelley; grandchildren, Jesse Lane and Jayden Kelley; and brothers, Ron Mercure of Valentine, NE, Norris (Sharon) Mercure of Clarinda, IA, and Steve (Kathi) Mercure of Tecumseh, NE. She also leaves behind many nieces and nephews who loved her dearly.

To leave condolences, please visit the mortuary website at www. Sandozfuneralhome.com.

Vigil and rosary on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. at St. Nicholas Catholic Church in Valentine, NE.

Mass of Christian Burial on Monday, July 14, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Nicholas Catholic Church in Valentine, NE.

Internment following at Mount Hope Cemetery at Valentine, NE.

In lieu of flowers, memorials made in Twyla’s honor will be designated by the family at a later date.

Sandoz Chapel of the Pines in Valentine was entrusted with service arrangements.