Ilda F. Kelley

Ilda F. Kelley, was born on September 1, 1929, in Northville, Michigan. She peacefully departed this world on November 22, 2024, in Palmetto, Florida.

Ilda’s virtues of diligence and perseverance throughout her life, With a distinctive spirit, she tirelessly shoveled her own snow and cut her own grass, embodying the principle that hard work is a source of personal pride. Her religious upbringing instilled in her the value and she carried these principles into her daily life.

Ilda found her fondness for gardening and flowers brought color and beauty to her days. She particularly loved Primrose and Mums, which were emblematic of her vibrant personality and her appreciation for nature’s wonders. The memories of strawberry picking in Granny’s yard remains etched in the hearts of her loved ones, even if she occasionally insisted on solitude among the long driveway adorned with towering pine trees. Granny loved canning and Sunday dinners.

She fashioned a warm and nurturing home for her family. Ilda had one child, Betty with husband Paul. Her beloved brother Art Smith. Her strong bonds she cherished about her 2 other brothers (Russell and Bill. ) Throughout her loving spirit continues; granddaughter Kelly and (spouse David) King, great grandson Jonathon (spouse Kelly Green) great granddaughter Katie( spouse Jim Clum).grandson Jason (spouse Christy Krettlen) extends to her great-grandchildren Alicia Mraulak, Kam, Logan, and Ethan Krettlen, and Caroline Hartford, along with her step-great-grandchildren and Jake Mraulak. Her great-great-grandchildren Myles, Jayce, and Anthony Mraulak also carry forward the love Ilda imparted to her family. Additionally, she embraced adopted great-grandchildren Marc Bryant, Brad Trout, Raquel Mance, Syvana Vaneeckhoutte, and Gracie Dailidonis, showcasing her nurturing heart and inclusive spirit.

Ilda’s life journey was profoundly intertwined with her late husband, whom she met while working in a factory. Their fateful encounter, when he offered her a ride home in his Model T, blossomed into a beautiful partnership that left an indelible mark on her life. 

Although she has passed on, the love they shared continues to resonate in the lives of their family members.