Kathryn Ann Kelly

Katie grew up in Albion, NE, had a Journalism degree from the University of Missouri, taught school in Humphrey, NE, as well as in Chicago and San Francisco.

The author of five books, “The Wonderful World of Women’s Wear Daily” (1972), “Garbage” (1973), “My Prime Time” (1980), “A Year in Saigon” (1992), and “The Kellys” (2004), Katie wrote for major newspapers and magazines, including Time, The New York Times, the Omaha World-Herald, and others.

For nearly 15 years, Katie Kelly was an on-air entertainment critic in New York City, primarily with the popular “Live at Five” program on WNBC anchored by Jack Cafferty.

She was also a regular on “The Today Show” with Jane Pauley and Tom Brokaw and, later, “The Morning Show” with Regis Philbin and Kathy Lee Gifford.

Katie also appeared on “Entertainment Tonight” as a movie critic.

After her career in New York City, Katie moved back to Nebraska in 1995. She bought 320 acres of native prairie in Knox County, moved in and restored a 1904 farmhouse, and enjoyed peace and quiet there for several years.

In 2002, feeling a need for more movies, plays, politics, etc., Katie moved to Omaha. She was active in prairie restoration and politics – as a determined and faithful Democrat.

She was a school volunteer at Field Club Elementary and, at age 65, took up tap dancing. With “The Hot Flash Dancers” she entertained at nursing homes, hospitals, senior centers, and assisted living facilities.

Katie was a victim of Alzheimer’s Disease and spent the last two years and nine months of her life at Bickford Assisted Living on Blondo Street in Omaha. Katie was deeply grateful to the staff at that facility, and some local friends, who aided during the months of illness.

As per Katie’s instructions, there will be no memorial service. Memorial gifts may be directed to Planned Parenthood of the Midlands and/or Nebraska Wildlife Rehab Center.