Malbie Parker Kelly

Malbie Parker Kelly, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother—affectionately known as “Mimi” by her grandchildren and great-grandchildren—and faithful servant of the Lord, went to be with her Savior on Sunday, the 28th of December 2025. Born on the 21st of November 1939, Malbie lived a life marked by devotion to her family, her church, and her faith. She was 86 years of age.

Malbie grew up in Houston, where she attended Bellaire High School. There, she distinguished herself as both a leader and a trailblazer, becoming Bellaire’s first Homecoming Queen and serving as head cheerleader—roles that reflected her confidence, warmth, and natural ability to bring people together.

She attended Baylor University for two years before returning to Houston to complete her education at the University of Houston. In 1962, Malbie married the love of her life, William Houston Kelly. Together, they built a life rooted in love, faith, and commitment. Raising their two daughters became Malbie’s full-time vocation and greatest joy. She poured herself into motherhood with grace, intention, and unwavering devotion.

A strong and lifelong Christian, Malbie dedicated her life to serving the Lord and His church. She was deeply involved at Second Baptist Church in Houston, where she faithfully taught Bible study and participated in outreach ministries. Known as a prayer warrior, Malbie believed deeply in the power of prayer and faithfully interceded for her family, friends, church, and all who asked her to pray. Her passion for Scripture, her gift for teaching, and her genuine care for others touched countless lives. She was known for her kindness, encouragement, and steadfast faith, always pointing others toward Christ.

Malbie was preceded in death in by her beloved husband, William Houston Kelly (2011); her parents, Alvin Nathan and Dorothy Jean Parker; and her younger brother, Alvin Eugene Parker.

She is survived by her daughters, Kari Kelly Alvarez and her husband Orlando, and Kimberly Kelly Luyster and her husband Curtis; her grandchildren, Justin William Beall and his wife Ashley, William Cole West, Alexis Rachel Kocher and her husband Ian, Matthew Troy West and his wife Charlize, Abbey Kate West, Brady Marshall Dillard, and Brandon James Alvarez; her great-grandchildren, Mia, Everly, Brooks, Noah, Evelyn, Cam, and Summer; and her brother, Charles Uley Parker and his wife Carol.

Her legacy of faith, love, and service lives on through each generation.

A funeral service is to be conducted at four o'clock in the afternoon on Thursday, the 29th of January, in the Jasek Chapel of Geo. H. Lewis & Sons, 1010 Bering Drive in Houston.

Immediately following the service, all are invited to greet the family during a reception to be held in the adjacent grand foyer.

At a later time, the family will gather for a private interment at Memorial Oaks Cemetery in Houston.

In lieu of customary remembrances, the family requests with gratitude that memorial contributions in Malbie’s name be directed to The Alzheimer's Association by simply selecting the link below under Donations.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23

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