Brenda Kelley Wells

Mom was born in Jacksonville, Arkansas, to Coy and Margie Kelley and grew up as the vibrant middle child between her older sister, Marsha, and her younger brother, Alan. From the start, she was the sunshine of her family, a joyful, outgoing child who found happiness playing sports on the neighborhood streets and later dancing with the Jacksonville Red Devils’ drill team. Mom also shared a love for horses and enjoyed competing in barrel races on the weekends with her beautiful quarter horse, Cricket. Her strawberry-blonde curls and radiant smile were her trademarks, lighting up every room.

Mom’s journey took her to the University of Arkansas and then to a fulfilling career with Tyson Foods. It was there she met our dad, David, who was a buyer for Walmart, and their love story began. They married in Little Rock and soon after started our family, first welcoming Cameron, then moving to Missouri, where I, Bridgette, came into the world.

As siblings, we always knew our mom’s greatest joy was being there for us. She chose to dedicate herself fully to motherhood, becoming the most selfless, loving, and supportive mom we could have ever asked for. She was our number one cheerleader, and truly, she was a cheerleader for everyone around her. Her kindness, her willingness to help, and her genuine warmth made her a beacon of love in so many lives.

Golfing together was one of our cherished family traditions, and we will honor her by continuing to share those moments in her memory, just as she taught us to spread kindness and joy in all we do.

Mom, from both of us: You were the heart of our family and the epitome of unconditional love. We will miss you beyond words, but we will carry your legacy forward together, just as you would have wanted. We find comfort in knowing you and Dad are reunited again — side by side, walking the fairways together, laughing, and playing another round in Heaven. Until we see you again, we will keep your love alive in everything we do.