Dorothy Jane Kelly

Dorothy Jane Kelly, 88, of Topeka, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 28, 2013 at McCrite Plaza Care Center.

Dorothy was born August 2, 1924 in Topeka to Elmer and Lena (Morris) Matthews. Dorothy graduated from Topeka High and attended Hutchinson Community College and Washburn University. She was a licensed realtor and enjoyed selling homes. She was an active member of many civic organizations which included the DAR. She also enjoyed traveling and playing golf with Tom. She was an avid KU fan.

Dorothy married Thomas E. Kelly, whom she met while attending Washburn on August 20, 1942 in Topeka. They were married for 67 years before he preceded her in death on March 24, 2011. She was also preceded in death by her brother, Eugene E. Matthews and her sister, Claudia Matthews. Survivors include her daughter, Janie Kelly Coates and her grandson, Thomas B. Coates, her nephews, Craig E. Matthews, Steven A. (Alice) Matthews and many other extended family members and her beloved dog, Mindy.

Graveside services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday at Mount Hope Cemetery. Dorothy will lie in state and the family will receive friends from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. Friday at Penwell-Gabel Southeast Chapel. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to Helping Hands Humane Society, 5720 SW 21st St., Topeka, KS 66604.