OBITUARY
Jennifer Kate Kelly
June 30, 1985 – February 17, 2021
Jennifer Kate Kelly, 35, passed away on February 17, 2021 in Oxford, Mississippi. Jennifer was born in Greensboro, North Carolina on June 30, 1985 to Michael E. and Donna H. Kelly. She graduated from Page High School in 2003 and went on to graduate cum laude from the University of Georgia with degrees in Spanish and Journalism. After studying and living abroad in Valencia, Spain, Jennifer was fluent in Spanish, and she continued her passion for the Spanish language upon her return to the United States.
Jennifer lived in many different places during her lifetime, and she often became involved in planning, advertising, and managing community events for a wide variety of programs addressing needs in the community. While she was a student at the University of Georgia, she was especially invested in Nuçi’s Space, an organization that provides care, guidance, and other support for musicians struggling with depression and other mental health issues. Jennifer was a beautiful singer. She enjoyed yoga, baking, and walking her beloved dog Tucker. Surviving are her fiancé Shane Stafford of Huntsville, AL, parents Michael Kelly (Marsha Mayer) of Greensboro and Donna Kelly (Tom Bibby) of Todd, sister Mary Kristen Kelly (Maria) of Raleigh, stepsisters Tyne Bibby (Rob Thompson) of Gibsonville and Morgan Wise (Zack) of Charlotte, and stepbrother Tim Bibby (Amy) of Arden. She was a loving aunt to nephews Michael, Theo, Mitch and Will, and nieces Caroline and Mika. She was a devoted dog mom to her constant four-legged companion Tucker. She is also survived by her uncle Allan Huneycutt, who was able to visit with her and provide support often when she returned to Greensboro and Todd over the years, and by many other aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who loved her dearly. A private family service will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider making a donation in her memory to one or several of the many organizations that are working to combat addiction and addiction-related illnesses. Jennifer’s life ended too early, and it is our hope that more research and development of treatment methods will help to save others who are struggling.
Among others to consider, donations may be made to the following organizations: Nuçi’s Space: 396 Oconee Street, Athens, GA 30601, and National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, Financial Management Branch –Gift Fund, National Institutes of Health, 6700B Rockledge Drive, Room 1336, Bethesda, Maryland 20892-6902. Remembrances of Jennifer may be shared by visiting www.haneslineberryfuneralhomes.com
Services
No public services are scheduled at this time. Receive a notification when services are updated.
Memories
Jennifer Kate Kelly
have a memory or condolence to add?
ADD A MEMORYJoAnne Vadeboncoeur
March 5, 2021
Jennifer you have left This World way too early. Miss my friend, I pray for your soul, LOVE
Andre Valdez
March 5, 2021
I remember when we first met with her contagious beautiful smile she just made you feel important. I am so grateful for the many laughs and cries we shared. She wanted the very best for everyone she came in contact with.
I'm still in shock everyday I cant talk to my sweet friend.
She does leave a legacy behind- one that I and others should strive for. Fly high sweet friend! Love you always!
Deja G
March 2, 2021
Rest on sweet Jen!!
Judi Rossabi
March 1, 2021
Dear Donna and family,
Sending deepest condolences on the loss of your beloved daughter.
Jamie Johnson
March 1, 2021
I’m in utter shock. Jen and I became fast friends just a few months ago. We texted each other a great deal and shared many ideals and had many conversations. I can’t believe she’s gone. It’s all so surreal. She was a wonderful, wonderful human being. Requiescat in Pace, sweet friend.
Elinor Carbone
February 28, 2021
I am so very sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with your family. I am so glad I had the best time meeting Jennifer a few years ago. She was a beautiful, and so sweet. I'll always remember her fondly. All my prayers are with you at this time.
Susan Webster
February 28, 2021
Blair and I are so sorry. We know how much Jennifer is loved and can only imagine how much she loved those around her too. As you move through this time, and celebrate her life through your lifetime, we wish you peace and the comfort of family and friends. Susan Webster
Zeek and Pam Zimmerman
February 28, 2021
Jennifer was a bright, compassionate young woman who touched so many lives. We are very sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Shirley Stroupe
February 25, 2021
Disbelief! Our family is saddened to learn about Jennifer Kelly's passing. The Stroupe family is sending prayers to the family of Jennifer Kelly. May you find strength in wonderful memories of her life experiences.
Susan (Rierson) Hines
February 25, 2021
Donna, I don't even know if you will remember me. I worked in the library at Peeler part time and you were always helping me as a volunteer. I remember you talking about taking the girls to see the Nutcracker. I am broken hearted to hear this news. I just wanted you to know I was thinking of you and your family. Love, Susan
Angela McClung
February 25, 2021
I am so saddened by this news. When Jennifer was still in Greensboro, we went for many walks and had many talks. We cooked meals together and jokingly planned to one day hostess a dinner and require everyone in attendance to wear prom attire from thrift stores! She was a bright and lovely woman! She was incredibly intelligent. She had a huge heart. I am praying for the Kelly family.
Weezie (Black) Keiner
February 25, 2021
Kelly family, I am heart broken to hear about Jennifer's passing. I have the most wonderful childhood and adult memories with Jennifer. I'll always remember playing at her house as young girls in an old school student desk, Indian princesses, many high school adventures and reconnecting as adults in Greensboro. She was such a sweet girl with such a wonderful spirit and soul. I will remember her fondly. Sending you all prayers and love during this tough time.
Gale and Tom Robins
February 25, 2021
Donna and family: Your tribute to Jennifer is lovely. Robyn let us know about your loss earlier this week. We continue to send prayers for comfort and strength. Love, Tom and Gale
Mia Ives-Rublee
February 21, 2021
Donna and family,
I remember all the great times Jennifer and I had when we were little kids (including trips to Yum Yums and sleep overs in the basement) and it's so sad to hear about her passing. Sending my condolences 💐.
Mia
Sherry Rockett
February 21, 2021
It is with deep sadness and sorrow that I leave this message. Jennifer will be remembered for her accomplishments and the love from her family.
Jan Boyce
February 20, 2021
I remember Jennifer coming to our home many many times to play as children and hang out as they grew into teens and young adults! My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time! I’m so very sorry for your loss!
Andrew & Sheri Chamberlin
February 19, 2021
Mike, Donna, and Mary Kristen:
Sheri and I were heartbroken to hear your news. We are praying for all of you and for Jennifer. May her memory be a blessing.
Andrew and Sheri
Milly Raynor
February 19, 2021
To Donna & Family,
So sad to learn about Jennifer’s passing! So many wonderful memories of her when the girls were in scouts. She was a beautiful young woman ! You are in my thoughts & prayers! Milly Raynor
Elizabeth (Little) Wright
February 19, 2021
The best of memories during some of our best years! I have and always will have the fondest memories of Jennifer, throughout so many years(Indian princess through college ❤️). I’m sending all the love and prayers to the Kelly family. She was a good soul, and will be missed by so many of us.
Pam Chappell
February 19, 2021
To Donna, Mike and Mary Kristen. I am so so sorry to hear of Jennifer’s passing. I have so many fond memories of carpooling to Peeler, Girl Scouts and our daughters playing together on so many occasions. John, Sara and I are holding you in the light.
Edward Echols
February 19, 2021
Our entire family is very sorry to hear of Jennifer’s passing. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Eddie & Jody Echols