A Farewell - DeForest Kelley - A Tribute

I've read that Kelley and his wife lived quite modestly in an ordinary suburban house, and because he managed his money well, lived quite comfortably on the residuals from Star Trek (and what he eventually made from the films) and convention appearances through the 1970s. Because of his modest lifestyle and good money management, he was financially pretty well off, and on at least a few occasions, sent money to fans who were in need -- always with the request that they keep it quiet so that he didn't get inundated with requests he'd have to start turning down. By all accounts he was a genuinely honest, decent, kind, and generous man.

Recently I read that Leonard Nimoy had tears in his eyes when he screened the first movie with Karl Urban as McCoy. Apparently Karl really captured the essence of a young McCoy.

De Kelley, like Nimoy, brought gravitas to the original series. He’s one of the strongest acting talents they had. Rest in peace DeForest Kelley.

Incredible how his performance actually inspired people in real life to pursue a career in medicine.

I am 65 now but I can remember the first time I was exposed to the original Star Trek: it was in 1967 and as I was in my parents' bedroom, I walked across the room, glanced casually across the room and glanced at the TV and Star Trek was on. It has been such a long journey. Why would have thought that from that first beginning in 1967 all of this would have come? What a great retrospective piece.

He was, and is, an inspiration for my medical career.

He was Star Trek’s moral compass. Always keeping the Captain and crew in line. He was the heart and emotion, the exact opposite to Spock’s cold logic and calculation. The relationships between these characters is the bedrock of Star Trek. These actors brilliance is what gave the show it’s longevity.

Long ago, it was, "Shut up Spock, we're rescuing you." Now, it's "I'm up here with you, Leonard. And the view is spectacular." RIP to a lot of the Star Trek crew along with DeForest Kelly.

Seeing DeForest on the Pilot of ST TNG still brings a tear to my eye, his talk with Data still the same humor as with dealing with Spock. His last comment though " You treat her like a Lady...and she'll always bring ya home" still hits me even these many years after his passing.

I had the honor of meeting DeForest Kelly decades ago. He was a very funny and amusing man. I even made him laugh a few times. Your an awesome man Mr. Kelly. RIP sir. Over time I've had off the wall chance meetings with Leonard Nimoy, William Shatner and few of the other original Star Trek actors. Thank you all for enriching our lives as well as out imagination.

Growing up I had no idea he was a 'cowboy'. Now I see his great work outside of Star Trek and marvel at how great he was. Rest In Peace

Hard to believe he's been gone 20 years now. He will always be remembered. Him, Nimoy and Shatner had such amazing chemistry, I don't think it can be equalled.

I loved this man, and the character he brought to life.  I'm so grateful that Karl Urban continues to portray the character with expertise.

Team Trek was just that; a team that worked together to make it happen. DeForest Kelley, James Doohan, Leonard Nimoy, Nichelle Nichols, all of them together with Gene Roddenberry carried the team to greatness in the annals of cinema history! Save me a hypospray, Doctor McCoy, and R.I.P. DeForest Kelley

So sad that these days are gone. "you treat her like a Lady, and she'll always bring you home.." goes far beyond a line in a script.

Over 30 years ago, I met Deforest Kelly at a Star Trek convention that I took my mom to. He allowed me to take a picture of him with my mom on stage. The smile on my mom's face. Priceless! A truly kind, genuine, good hearted man. My mom also passed away and I will always be grateful for that picture.

Remeber The Undiscovered Country? DeForest and Leonard were putting a guidance system on a torpedo. Greatest line spoken, "I'd give real money if he'd shut up!" Best line ever!

The original Star Trek, just like DeForest Kelly was the REAL McCOY!

He’s not dead as long as we remember him.

One of those scarce Hollywood personalities that didn't let stardom go to his head. From everything that I've ever read, watched, or heard... Mr. Kelley was a down to earth, friendly, personable, fellow who lived-up to the whole "southern gentleman" persona. Think about it.... anybody ever hear any dirt or negativity involving this guy? 👍 We need more of these type of folks in Hollywood and less of the stereotypical "little shitz" that makes up the other 98%!! 😒