Ms. Zelles H. ("Nannie") Kelly

Zelles H. Kelly 87, a life long resident of Kalamazoo, Michigan went to be with her Lord and Savior on Monday, September 29, 2008. She was preceded in death by her parents Oscar and Mary Hayes, sister Odessa Hayes, and Aunt & Uncle Rev. Moses and Charity Thomas. “Zelly” as she was called by her friends was born December 13, 1920 in Memphis, Tennessee to Oscar & Mary Hayes. Zelly moved to Kalamazoo at an early age. Due to the death of her parents she was raised by her Aunt and Uncle the Rev. Moses & Charity Thomas. Zelly accepted Christ at an early age at Allen Chapel AME Church where she was a faithful member for over 50 years. Zelly graduated from Kalamazoo Central High school and Parsons Business School. She met and married Harvey R. Kelly and from that union was blessed with her only child Sandra. Zelly was employed by Master Cleaners as a silk finisher. She later joined the Upjohn Company where she retired. Always an active person Zelles continued to work after retirement at the Oakwood Elementary School as a play ground attendant. She also worked nearly every election for the past 25 years. Zelles was excited about the upcoming election. Her interest included being a member of the Las Amigas Federated Club, an avid bowler (achieving a perfect 300 game), modeling and a professional caliber jitterbug dancer (with trophy’s and pictures to prove it). She loved to recite beautiful sonnets and could even in her later years recite a poem on demand. Zelles enjoyed making beautiful pottery and crafts which are represented in many of our homes. Zelles loved her church home, Allen Chapel AME and was member of the usher board. She was known for top sells for various church and social events as well as her many beautiful hats. Zelles received many awards and distinctions during her life time including most recently the Delta award for Women of the Year this spring. “Nannie” as she was affectionately called by her family is survived by daughter, Sandra K. Baker; 4 grandchildren, Lyle S. Baker Jr, Rhonda L. Baker-Smith, Harvey (Zanetta) Baker Sr, and Andrea (Carl) Page; 12 Great-grandchildren, Shaunte’ (Marketta) Baker Sr., Ariel Z. R. Baker, Montrel O. D. Baker, Abriance C. N. Baker, Karlyn A. Page, Kendall K. Page, Donte’ M. Hudson, Harvey R.K. Baker Jr., Jasmine D. Hudson, Akeyla G. Smith, Carly A. Page and Lillian H. Baker; 4 Great-great Grandchildren, Shaunte’ M. Baker Jr., Angel P. Baker, Zaniya M. Baker and Luke D. Baker; and a host of relatives and friends. Zelles was known as a person who loved her family, lived life to the fullest, embraced people where ever she went with a warm joyful smile and words of encouragement. She will be greatly remembered for her many beautiful hats.

Ms. Zelles H. ("Nannie") Kelly

December 13, 1920 - September 29, 2008