Ione Louise O’Brien McKelvey, 88, passed away on Sept. 12, 2026, in Rockport, Texas. Funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, Oct. 9, 2026, at St. Mary’s Church in Highmore, South Dakota. Burial will follow at the Highmore Cemetery. Her husband will be laid to rest with her at the same time. A luncheon will follow burial at the East Wing of the Hyde County Memorial Auditorium in Highmore.
Ione was born on March 12, 1938, the daughter of James O’Brien and Mina Lusk. She grew up in Highmore, where she met and married her high school sweetheart, James McKelvey. They shared their lives together until James’ passing on April 6, 2005.
Ione is survived by her daughter, Dixie Fleming, and her husband, John Fleming; stepgrandson, Daniel Fleming; brother, Terrance O’Brien; sisters-in-law, Mary Ann Gobelle and Patti McKelvey; and nieces and nephews, Jan Kansteiner, Terry Dorr, Jon Fore, Bud Fore, Kelly Hooper, Jeff McKelvey and Jennifer Sylvander.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Highmore Area Foundation, P.O. Box 296, Pierre, SD 57501. These gifts will directly support nonprofit organizations serving the Highmore community. Luze Funeral Home of Highmore has been entrusted with Ione’s arrangements. Visit www.luceluzereck.com.
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