Benilda Fernandez Kelley

Born on December 8, 1939, in the Philippines, Benilda embraced life with an adventurous spirit, a kind heart, and an unwavering love for family, friends, and faith.

Benilda dedicated her career to helping others as a Medical Technologist and Blood Bank Supervisor at Riverview Regional Medical Center. Her commitment to her profession reflected her deep sense of responsibility and care for those in need.

A devout Catholic, Benilda was an active member of St. James Catholic Church, where she participated in the Sodality and was a lector and found strength in her faith. She was also deeply involved in her community, serving as a member of the Maharlika Filipino-American Association, the Tawannah Lion’s Club, and the Hokes Bluff Seniors and Friends, where she proudly served as past president.

Benilda had a deep passion for gardening, earning the title of Master Gardener. She found joy in nurturing plants, much like she nurtured the people around her. She also had an adventurous side—always eager to explore new places, try new restaurants, dance at parties, karaoke, and spend time with her daughter and best friend, Nola. Her independent and active spirit made her a constant source of joy, laughter, and warmth for those around her.

Her great sense of humor and love for life were evident in everything she did, whether she was shopping for clothes and purses, cheering on her daughter, Nola, as she played pickleball, or simply enjoying a meal together and spending time together. She adored her cat, Mollie, and found happiness in the simple pleasures of companionship and connection.

Above all, Benilda was a strong, loving mother, wife, and friend. She cherished her daughter, family, and friends both here and in the Philippines, always showing generosity, kindness, and an open heart to those who needed it. She was truly loved by so many and will be deeply missed.

We will honor and celebrate Benilda's life on Friday, February 21, 2025 at St. James Catholic Church, 622 Chestnut Street, Gadsden, Alabama. Visitation will be at 12:30 P.M. and the funeral mass at 1:00 P.M., officiated by Father Jose B. Chacko, followed by her inurnment at the St. James Catholic Church Columbarium. There will be a meal following the mass at the church in Seaton Hall.

Benilda is preceded in death by her husband, Marvin Henry Kelley, her parents, Angela and Fernando Fernandez, and her sister, Ninfa Fernandez Umadhay.

She is survived by her devoted daughter, Nola Jane Kelley, special friends, Celinia Sturm, Agnes Bentley, Alice Mercado, Froilina Estrada, Maloy Helms, Fay Johnson, and Susan Wilkes; and a host of many loving family members and friends both here in the U.S. and in her beloved Philippines.

Special thanks to the nurses and staff of the CCU, CCU Step-Down, and Southern Care New Beacon Hospice at Riverview Regional Medical Center for their care and sensitivity during her stay.

Benilda’s legacy of love, laughter, and resilience will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

We love you, Sweet Mo ❤️