Richmond, VA

May 14, 1949 – December 3, 2024

Claudette Alphelia Kelly entered eternal rest on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, surrounded by her family. She was born on May 14, 1949, in Richmond, VA, to James Kelly and Dorothy E. (Reaves) Kelly.

Her life was marked by generously serving others, and she lived unapologetically. After more than 40-years in the grocery business, Claudette retired in early 2023 from Kroger, where her hard work and dedication left a lasting mark on her colleagues and customers. However, Claudette’s greatest passion was her gift for making others feel welcome through food. She loved cooking for anyone who crossed her doorstep, and many raved about her macaroni & cheese, quiche, deep-dish cheesecakes, chicken salad, and fruit punch. For decades, her home was a place of comfort, hot meals, and joyous reunions filled with laughter.

Claudette was a proud and devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She is survived by her children: Donna Young (Keith), Charles Kelly, Charlotte Kelly Turner (Landon), and Donald Kelly; her beloved grandchildren, Shirish Kelly, Kevon Young, Kierra Young, and Destinee Kelly; and her only great-grandson, Qyndus Kelly. She also leaves three sisters, Vernice Anderson, Rose Kelly, and Barbara Clarke (James), along with a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents; two sisters, Doris Jones and Sheila Kelly; two brothers, Albert Kelly and Stanley Reaves; and her nephew, Jovon Kelly.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Quintus Flannagan, Kelvin Robinson, Pat Walden, Pearl Thomas, and Claudette’s dear friend, Ivory Lewis, for their unwavering care and support during her illness.

As we mourn the loss of the woman we called Ma, Granny, Sister, Aunt Claudette, and Friend, we take solace in her words during her final days: “I’m going home with my Master. I’m in His hands now.” While holding her hands just before her transition, her family expressed their love and affirmed how well she had fulfilled her life’s purpose. Indeed, a job well done. She is already tremendously missed, and her memory will live on.

A celebration of life is planned for January 2025.