Lillian S. Kelley

Lillian was born on February 18, 1948, to the late Mr. Harvey Eugene Sykes and Mrs. Mattie Barry Sykes. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis, and on August 19, 1978, she married the love of her life, Robert C. Kelley.

Lillian dedicated more than 40 years to early childhood education as a Pre-K teacher with the Archdiocese of Indianapolis. During her career, she faithfully served at St. Andrew Catholic School, Holy Cross Catholic School, and Little Flower Catholic School. She was known for her kindness, patience, and unwavering devotion to the children and families she served throughout the years.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Harvey Eugene Sykes and Mattie Barry Sykes; her sisters, Mary Sykes, Doris Sykes, and Earlene Sykes; and her brothers, Harvey Sykes Jr. and Jessie Sykes.

Lillian leaves to cherish her memory her devoted husband, Robert C. Kelley; her daughters, Chelsea R. Kelley and Catrina Kelley; her son, Mark (Sholonda) Kelley; her sisters, Dolores Carr and Gwendolyn Sykes; her brother, Johnnie (Angel) Sykes; her grandchildren, Mark Kelley Jr., Marcelles Kelley, Maya Sain, and Aaron Sain Jr.; one great-grandchild; and a host of cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Friday, May 29, 2026, at Light of the World Christian Church, 4646 N. Michigan Road, Indianapolis, IN 46228. Funeral services will begin at 11:00 a.m. immediately following visitation. Interment will follow at Crown Hill Cemetery.

The family of Lillian S. Kelley extends sincere gratitude to the doctors and nurses of Community Hospital East, the Archdiocese of Indianapolis, and Light of the World Christian Church for their care, compassion, and support.

Memorial contributions may be made on her behalf via our GoFundme Link: https://gofund.me/ec4d15979 or Search: Honoring Lillian S. Kelley’s Legacy on GoFundMe Website