Gladys Hoff Kelly

Gladys (Hoff) Kelly, 94, of Jacksonville, Florida, formerly of Terra Alta, West Virginia, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a family whose lives were forever shaped by her love, strength, and generosity.

Born in Terra Alta, West Virginia, Gladys was the daughter of the late Roy and Samantha Hoff. She was preceded in death by her son, Thomas Kelly; her brothers, Harold Hoff and Harry “Bob” Hoff; and her sisters, Mary Benner, Betty Lou Baird, and Bernice Hull.

She is survived by her children, Pat Kelly, Cheryl Kelly, and Steven Kelly Sr.; her grandchildren, Erin Kelly, Steven Kelly Jr., Mary Branham, Kristen Clark, and Mia Kelly; and her cherished great-grandchildren, Eban Blake, Kenzie Branham, Chase Branham Jr., Karly Clark, Leighton Branham, Kevin Clark Jr., Keagan Clark, Kason Clark, and Adaline Kelly.

Gladys found happiness in life’s simple pleasures. She was an avid gardener who took great pride in growing fruits and vegetables. Her garden provided not only food for her family but also reflected the patience, dedication, and care with which she lived her life.

An exceptional cook, Gladys filled her home with meals that brought family together especially her buckwheat cakes. She passed along her recipes, skills, and love of cooking to her children, ensuring that her traditions would continue for generations.

Nothing meant more to Gladys than her family. She delighted in watching her children grow, treasured every moment spent with her grandchildren, and was overjoyed to welcome her great-grandchildren into the family. She had a quiet way of making everyone feel cared for, whether through a home-cooked meal, a gift from her garden, or simply being there when she was needed.

Gladys will be remembered for her resilience, kindness, generous spirit, and unwavering devotion to those she loved. Though she will be deeply missed, her legacy lives on in the family she nurtured, the traditions she passed down, and the countless memories shared around her table.