Gladys DeCayette Kelly

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Gladys Decayette Kelly, who peacefully departed this life on March 28, 2026, and ascended into heaven to be with her Lord and Savior.

Gladys was born on October 22, 1945, in Maragoâne, Haiti, to Delta Decayette and Félix Thomas. She lived a life marked by grace, strength, determination, and unwavering devotion to those she loved. She will be remembered for her warm spirit, caring heart, quiet elegance, and the lasting impact she made on her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

At the age of 19, Gladys began working at Gimbels Department Store in New York City, where she discovered her passion and natural gift as a wig stylist. Inspired to refine her talent, she attended the American Beauty Institute in New York City, where she earned her Diploma in Cosmetology.

Gladys later met her beloved husband and best friend, MSgt. Walter Kelly, Jr. (USMC), and together they built a life rooted in love, faith, family, and service. Their journey eventually led them to Burke, Virginia, where they established their home and raised their family.

She proudly served at the Pentagon Barber Shop for 20 years, where her exceptional skill, strong work ethic, and unwavering dedication distinguished her among her peers. Her mastery of both contemporary and advanced haircare earned her the reputation of being one of the most requested stylists by military service members. Through her gifted hands and compassionate spirit, Gladys not only enhanced beauty but also uplifted the confidence and morale of countless individuals she served. A gifted entrepreneur as well, she successfully owned six beauty shops in Virginia.

In 1996, Gladys and her husband relocated to Orlando, Florida. She initially worked as a stylist for JCPenney, but ultimately found her way back to the military community she loved so dearly through the Navy Exchange Barber Shop (NEX). Her distinguished career with NEX spanned 30 years, a testament to her professionalism, dedication, and passion for serving others.

In addition to her work as a gifted stylist, Gladys had a deep passion for interior decorating, preparing gourmet Haitian cuisine, and maintaining an active, healthy lifestyle through exercise. She was also remarkably gifted in language and was fluent in French, Haitian Creole, Spanish, and English, allowing her to connect with people from many walks of life with warmth and ease.

Throughout her life, Gladys was known for her quiet strength, refined elegance, and remarkable ability to make others feel seen, valued, and deeply cared for. Her presence was a blessing, and her memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

Gladys leaves to cherish her precious memory her beloved children, Stanley Enzo Alcindor, Madalyn Sophie Gainey (Andrew Clifford Gainey), and Bryan Jesus Kelly; and her three treasured and beautiful granddaughters, Brooke Clarrina Hinnant, Princess Lucy Gainey, and Chanele Angel Gainey. She also leaves behind extended family, dear friends, her cherished teammates at the Navy Exchange Barber Shop, and her church family at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, all of whom were blessed by her love, kindness, and grace.

She was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Walter Kelly Jr., who passed away on July 18, 2019.

Though she is no longer with us in body, her love, legacy, and beautiful spirit will continue to live on in the lives she touched.

May she rest in eternal peace and be forever remembered.