Obituary of Ella Mae Kelly

After completing the fifth grade, her family moved to Riverton, New Jersey. Ella matriculated through the Palmyra public school system and graduated from Palmyra High School in 1951. During her time in Palmyra High School, Ella was a member of the Drum and Bugle Corps, and any organization they asked her to join.

On September 27, 1952, Ella married the love of her life S. Lawrence Kelly.  From this union came five children: Sylvia Lorraine, Sharon Lynn (deceased), Steven Louis, Sheila Louise (deceased), and Sandra Lawrel.

Ella was a faithful and dedicated servant of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. As an active member of the Mt. Zion A. M. E. Church Riverton, Ella served as: President of the Stewardess Board; Director of Christian Education;and  Sunday School Superintendent.  She tirelessly served as a member of the  Usher Board, and her alto voice could also be heard praising the Lord as a member the Senior, Chancel, and Mass choirs.  Ella was always the first person at church and the last one to leave. Her love for God and her church was infectious. You could be sure when meeting Ella for the first time, she would always ask, “Do you go to church?”  This was often followed by, “And are you married?”

Ella enjoyed babysitting her grandchildren, visiting the sick and transporting anyone who needed a ride. She also enjoyed being outside in the sunshine caring for her flowers and plants. She sang with the Varitone a Capella Choral Society, cheerfully volunteered with the Meals of Love Ministry in Beverly, NJ, and enjoyed cooking for family and friends.  She would mix many juices and sodas into unique beverages which, over the years, became known as “ALLE” (which is Ella, spelled backwards).

Ella was predeceased in death by her siblings: Harry Hunt; Lynch Hunt, Sr; Doc Hunt, Jr and Samuel Hunt.

She leaves to cherish her precious memories: Sister, Hettie Hunt; Three children, Sylvia Kendeall (Clifford); Steven Kelly, Sr (Gail); Sandra Merlino (David). Eight grandchildren: Clifford Kendeall, Jr; Brian Kendeall (Terri); Lawrence Kendeall; Alexis Lourenco (Remy); Steven Kelly, Jr; Matthew Davis; Spencer Kelly and Shane Kelly.  Five great grandchildren: Caleb Kendeall; Caleigh Kendeall; Jacob Kendeall; Jordan Kendeall; Caleb Davis and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.