Ione Louise McKelvey
March 12, 1938 ~ September 12, 2026
Born in: Highmore, South Dakota
Resided in: Rockport, Texas
Ione Louise O’Brien McKelvey, 88, passed away on September 12, 2026, in Rockport, Texas.
Funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, October 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 the 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, South Dakota, where she met and married her high school sweetheart, James McKelvey. They shared their lives together until James’s passing on March 31, 2005.
Ione is survived by her daughter, Dixie Fleming, and her husband, John Fleming; step-grandson, 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, 19938 324th Ave, Highmore, SD 57345. These gifts will directly support nonprofit organizations serving the Highmore community.
Luze Funeral Home of Highmore has been entrusted with Ione’s arrangements.
Services
Funeral Mass: Friday, October 9, 2026 10:30 am
St. Mary's Catholic Church
311 Parker Ave SW
Highmore, SD 57345
View current weather.
Memories Timeline
Guestbook
Sign the Guestbook, Light a Candle
Ione was of my favorite cousins. She always had a smile on her face and was always very welcoming. Her and Jim were always a hoot to visit and I enjoyed spending time with them. I visited with Ione in Texas a few years ago and had a great time. She will be missed.
Ione, my dear friend of more than 75 years. Wherever she moved, or I moved, we were always in touch. Our husbands were good friends also and the four of us spent so much time together, even on their honeymoon and into Jim’s last days on dialysis. The last years have been hard for Ione, but she didn’t complain, always said she was lucky to have people who cared. My condolences to Dixie, Terry, Deenie’s girls and all the other relatives. Sue Malmquist Grable, suegrable@gmail.com
Ione, you were my favorite mother-in-law, thank you for Dixie. We will miss you. May God be with you always.
Ione, you were my favorite mother-in-law, thank you for Dixie. We will miss you. May God be with you always.
Sorry to hear about Ione, sending our thoughts and prayers to her family members.
So sorry for Dixie and extended family .i have some great memories of Ione and Jim.
I’m so sorry for your loss my dear friend Dixie. Your mom will be remembered with love and I’m thinking of you and your family during this difficult time.
We are so sorry for your loss. Jim and Ione were great friends. Ione and Jim were my classmates in high school. We pray for your comfort and peace.
I have many fond memories of Ione and Jim having many meals together around grandma Iva’s dining table. Stopping for visits when in Sioux Falls. Although the visits were few in later years after Jim passed when Ione came for Old Settlers Days, we would reminisce. I borrowed her Highmore High School cheerleading outfit for a Civic League program two times in the past, she was a lifetime Highmore Pirate fan. Peace to the entire family. susan hamlin bast
Going to miss my good friend, Ione. So sorry for the family, prayers and condolences to all. 🙏
Special memories of this beautiful woman. Dixie and family you were in our thoughts and prayers as you celebrate the life of your mom. God Bless and hugs
Many fond memories of Ione and Jim. It was a very nice service and eulogy Dixie. I remember spending a lot of time at great Aunt Mina’s as a youngster. Keep all the great memories close to your hearts. Sending prayers for peace and comfort during this difficult time.