Kevin Neil Jolly's Obituary
Kevin Neil Jolly, of Grove, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on May 17th, 2025, after a short but courageous battle with cancer. He was born in Lubbock, Texas, on October 15, 1963, to Kenneth and Melba Jolly. In 1968, the family moved to Tahlequah, Oklahoma, where Kevin spent most of his childhood and graduated from high school. He went on to attend Northeastern State University, where he studied Computer Sciences—an early passion that would shape much of his career.
Kevin later moved to Barstow, California, while working with U-Haul. It was there he met the mother of his daughter, Sarah Dawn, beginning an important chapter in his life as a proud and loving father.
Kevin was a beloved father, grandfather, brother, and uncle. Jovial and fun-loving, he had a knack for making people laugh and his was infectious, getting so tickled and red in the face from a good story or joke. He never met a stranger and conversation came easily.
He was a better fisherman than his brother and cousin Jeff—something he proudly claimed. He enjoyed nothing more than a good drink, a fine cigar, and time spent in the great outdoors. He especially loved the times he spent with his grandson, Anthony, fishing.
A devoted OU Sooner fan, Kevin bled crimson and cream. He spent many years volunteering for the Varsity “O” Association, passionately supporting the team and building friendships with fellow fans. Game days were sacred and he cherished every opportunity to cheer on his beloved Sooners.
Though he carried himself with humor and confidence, Kevin had a tender heart. He would tear up at sentimental moments, never afraid to show his love for family and the people who mattered most. His warmth and emotional honesty were part of what made him so special to those who knew him.
Kevin had a fulfilling and varied career. He managed a U-Haul center, a role he took great pride in, and previously owned his own computer store. He also worked in IT hardware support for medical hospitals, where his knowledge and dedication made a meaningful impact behind the scenes of patient care.
He is survived by his daughter, Sarah Johnston, and her husband, Avery; three grandchildren, Merit, Helena, and Breccan; his brother, Kerry Jolly; his sister, Kristy Beamish; several nieces and nephews, and many others with whom he called family. He was preceded in death by his Mother, Father, and Sister Jana Kimball with whom he shared many adventures.
He lived his life with warmth, humor, and a deep love for those around him. He will be dearly missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
The family will be memorializing Kevin privately in his favorite place—New Mexico—where his spirit will be honored in the peace and beauty he loved.
Cremation services have been placed in the care of Brown-Winters Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Miami, Oklahoma.
Friends and family may send the family notes of encouragement by viewing Kevin's Tribute Page at www.brown-winters.com.
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