Lauren Lee Kelly

Lauren Lee Kelly (Russell) of Carlsbad, California passed away March 1, 2026 with family by her side. She was battling the effects of Lewy Body dementia which led to fall and subsequent hip fracture. Lauren was loved and respected by family, by friends and her community. She was generous with her time, was kind, and gracious. Her unwavering support, and boundless love will live forever in our hearts.

Lauren was born November 25, 1948 in Pigeon, Michigan to George and Ida Russel. Lauren was the middle child of seven siblings. She graduated from North Hagerstown High School in 1966 and began her collegiate studies at the University of Maryland. She finished her Bachelor’s degree at the National University later in life. She also earned public health administration certificates from UCLA. Lauren worked for SCE at SONGS (San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station) and was a part of their speaker’s task force. She retired as a project manager for United Health care.

Lauren was an outdoor enthusiast, community leader, and grandmother extraordinaire. She loved hiking, having summited Mt Whitney twice. She ran a marathon, walked numerous half marathons, as well as completed century bike rides. She loved public speaking spending many years as a Toastmaster. She was the Founder’s District Governor from ’02-03’ and an International Director from ’06-’08. Lauren was on the board of directors for the San Clemente Ocean festival in which she served as the president for multiple years. Lauren’s busy schedule did not keep her from attending her grandchildren’s activities that included sports, equestrian events, and theatrical performances. She typically had a cowbell in one hand ringing it proudly for her grandchildren.

Lauren is survived by her sisters Chloe, Susan, Jennifer, Shelly, and her brother Danny. She has three adult children Caroline, Tanya, Brian and two sons in law Wayne and Mike. Her grandchildren include Michelle, Claire, Gabriella, Brian Jr, Brittney, Douglas and Blake. She was blessed with four great grandchildren Kaeilani, Cossette, Cooper, and Emmett.

There will be a celebration of Lauren’s life April 13, 2026 5:30 – 8:30 pm, Seabird Resort, 101 Mission Ave, Oceanside, CA. In lieu of flowers please consider donating to Working Wardrobes https://www.workingwardrobes.org/ or donating to a charity of your choice in Lauren’s name. Please RSVP by April 3 at [email protected]