Norma Lee Kelly

Norma Lee Kelly, a beloved matriarch and cherished member of her family, booked a trip to her eternal home on March 15th, 2025, at her residence in Auburn, Kansas, surrounded by the warmth of her loved ones. Born December 4th, 1939, at the home of her aunt to John “Jack” William Montgomery and Agnes Myrtle Montgomery (nee Barlett) in the quaint town of Kinsley, Kansas. Norma had a fun small-town childhood running around with her friends and cruising in her dad’s pickup truck. In 1958, Norma graduated from Kinsley High School, where she was a member of many social activities, such as the Future Farmers of America, the marching band where she played the bass drum, and was a “bayette” in the Kansas Association for Youth. After high school, she attended Washburn University, where she earned her LMHT license and worked thirty-five years helping and caring for others at Kansas Neurological Institute and the Topeka State Hospital. Her dedication to her profession was evident in her tireless efforts to ensure the well-being of those in her charge. In both her work and personal life, Norma embodied the virtues of compassion and resilience, qualities that endeared her to her family and friends alike. Norma’s vibrant personality radiated warmth; she was a strong-willed woman, and this kept her going 14 years after suffering a stroke that left her partially paralysed. When doctors told her she wouldn't walk again, she proved them wrong one step at a time. Norma was unwilling to be anything other than the strong force she had always been for her family. A beloved role model with unbreakable bonds with her family, she took great pride in her children and grandchildren, often expressing that her proudest accomplishments were rooted in their successes and happiness. She found immense joy in the annual family gatherings where people she cherished the most would smile as her infectious laughter would bellow out over the booming sounds of the fireworks shot overhead. There was no happier place for Norma than snuggled up on a blanket in the backyard watching the bright colors illuminate the night sky. In 1976, Norma met Leonard Kelly, the man she would spend the happiest years of her life with. Inseparable from day one, they married the following year in (town) and spent the next 48 years of her life traveling to all four corners of the United States, Canada, the Isle of Man, and even Hell (Cayman Islands). She loved to explore and to be present in the most unique gems the world had to offer. Visiting places that many will only see through their computer and TV screens. Norma especially held a fondness for the outdoors, enjoying the fuzzy tickle of wheat on the tips of her fingers and adorning her home with beautiful sunflowers. A true Kansan girl at heart. When not outdoors, Norma could often be found at the local bowling alley relishing in the camaraderie and challenge each game brought or dragging family and friends out to the Prairie Band casino, where she often left with her pockets full instead of empty. Although she is survived by her devoted husband Leonard and her loving children Cheryl and David (Leslie) and stepchildren Jeanita, John, and Jerome. Norma’s earthly presence will be profoundly missed. She leaves behind a legacy of five grandchildren: Jordan, Jessica, Crystal, Shawn, and Brian, and four great-grandchildren: Addison, Lincoln, Tristan, and Aiden, whose lives she enriched with her unwavering comfort, laughter, support, and encouragement. In heartbreaking contrast, Norma is preceded in death by her sisters, Joann Lawrence and Norma Lou, and brother George Montgomery, and her parents, Agnes and Jack Montgomery. Their spirits remain intertwined with her memory, a testament to the strong familial bonds Norma valued deeply. As we reflect upon the life of Norma Lee Kelly, let us remember a woman whose heart knew no bounds, whose infectious laughter could lift the heaviest of spirits, and whose love for her family illuminated even the darkest of days. We’ll miss you today; we’ll miss you tomorrow. We'll miss you always. Looking forward to meeting you once again at the terminal in the sky.

In lieu of flowers contributions can be given to Auburn Community Center. PO BOX 160
Auburn, KS 66402