Luella Kelly
Luella Kendzur Kelly passed away peacefully on January 1, 2024 at 102 years of age. She is survived by her three children, Tom Kelly (Brenda), John Kelly (Muff) and Carole Kelly-Frank (Lyle Frank). She was also blessed with four grandchildren, Jessen Kelly (Martijn van Exel), Benton Jones (Rod), Ellie Frank, Carter Frank, and two great grandchildren, Axel Jones and Brody Jones.
Luella was born on August 28, 1921 in Carrington, North Dakota to John and Caroline Kendzur who had left Poland in the early 1900’s for a better life in the United States. Following high school and the start of World War II, she moved to Bremerton, Washington working at the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard. It was nearing the end of the war when she met Coyet Kelly stationed at the Naval Magazine at Indian Island, Washington, and they were married in February 1945. Following the war, they moved to the St. Louis area to be with family and raise their children.
Luella held several jobs throughout her 102 years of life including serving as a rural mail carrier and office worker for the Postal Service in Ballwin, Missouri. For many years, she served as the cook at several catholic parishes including Ascension in Chesterfield, St. Anthony’s in Sullivan and St. Boniface in St. Louis. She finished her career at age 80 at Kenrick-Glennon Seminary.
Luella will be remembered for her devotion to her family and friends. Her strong wit and flawless memory were present to the end, enabling her to tell others how things really were back in the day. She was known for her love of cards, slot machines, bingo and jigsaw puzzles. She was a collector of things, including glassware, coins, stamps and vintage buttons. Luella also loved the outdoors, be it walking through the woods, boating or fishing.
The family will hold a service to celebrate her life on Saturday, January 13 at 1:00 pm at the Chapel at Meramec Bluffs located at 1 Meramec Bluffs Drive in Ballwin. The family will be receiving visitors one hour prior to the start of the service at the Chapel. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations may be made to the Humane Society of Missouri as her dogs always held a special place in Luella’s heart.
Luella was such a wonderful, strong woman! I was blessed to have known her. She will be deeply missed.
Such a remarkable woman. Praying for you and your family.
Lu made the Franks feel like family from the start. We all loved her and are grateful to have spent many precious birthdays and a few holidays with her and the Kellys when we could get down to StL. Deepest sympathies and peace to the family, with many wonderful memories to hold dear here in the Chicago burbs.
I have nothing but lovely memories of your mom. She really was 2nd mom to me throughout grade school and junior high. Hugs and prayers for Carole, Tom, John and the rest of the Kelly family❤️
Luella was a warm hearted person she is at peace with her God hope the family finds the relief of knowing she is with her makers in heaven Bless each one of you
Lou was a beautiful lady, my life has been enriched having her as a friend, she was remarkable, she is at peace. My deepest sympathy to all the family, she will be missed.
She was a wonderfully kind woman. I always remember coming over to the house with Carole after school or field hockey practice and how she greeted us and made me feel welcome! She was a blessing. Big hugs.
Terry and I wish to express our sympathy to the entire Kelly family. We did not know Luella well, but our sister, Brenda, Luellla’s daughter-in-law, would relate many stories about her and her amazing ability to keep up to date with current events. It amazed me when I heard that for her 100th Christmas, she asked for a new computer. May she rest in peace.
I live thousands miles away and I had never the pleasure to meet you in this world but when I see your eyes on this picture, I can see Carole, your daughter.
You had an amazing life when I read your bio and I am sure you were so proud of your children and family.
I have no doubt you will be there forever in their heart, watching what they achieve and give to others as part of their life, which is the best way for them to carry on your legacy.
Rest in peace.
Luella was a delightful lady and a most wonderful cook. She cooked many delicious meals at Ascension’s rectory which were always thoroughly enjoyed. We always cherished time spent with her and loved her wonderful laugh. We are so sorry for your loss.
Luella was an inspiration. We’re happy to know she is at peace. Praying for the family to have the same.