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Kelly Gaffney Obituary
Jackson, TN
Kelly Ann Nelson Gaffney passed into the loving and merciful arms of Jesus and Our Lady in the early morning of April 19th, 2017.
Kelly was born on October 31st, 1988 to Ted and Tricia Nelson.
A lifelong Jackson resident, she attended St. Mary's School and is a high school graduate of the University School of Jackson where she also played soccer and tennis. Kelly went on to play soccer at University of Dallas and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology in 2011. In 2014, she earned her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center. She practiced Physical Therapy at Therapy & Learning Center in Jackson, TN and was also involved in weekly therapy sessions for special needs children at Rein-bow Riding Academy in Lexington, TN. Kelly met her husband Timothy Edward Gaffney in July of 2012. They married on Divine Mercy Saturday (April 11th) in 2015 and settled in Jackson.
Kelly lived unwavering in her Catholic faith journey, with her most special treasures being the people she encountered and the relationships she formed along the way. She loved so deeply, had many close friends, and positively influenced the lives of all she met. Kelly loved to travel, with one of her fondest memories being the semester she spent in Rome while attending UD. She and her family enjoyed going on pilgrimages to Medjugorje, vacationing at the beach in Destin, FL, the Caribbean, and traveling to European countries including Italy, Spain, Austria, Bosnia, and Ireland. In the winter she loved skiing in the mountains of Colorado. Kelly had a passion for creating and collecting art, and loved sunflowers. She also enjoyed watching and playing sports.
Kelly's journey has touched the lives of thousands around the world—bringing some to conversion, and others into an even deeper union with God. A selfless spirit, she always placed the well-being of others—especially her husband and family—before her own. Kelly was involved in Crusaders for Life, a youth pro-life movement. She reserved a special place in her heart for the unborn and unwanted children of the world; and it is our belief that Kelly is now mother to all those children in Heaven. Kelly also held an intimate devotion to The Divine Mercy, as she lived the example of spreading God's love to others with the hope that all can share in His joy.
Kelly Ann is now free of the pain and suffering she endured from a 14-month battle with Stage IV ovarian cancer. She rejoices victoriously in heaven—and holds all of us to the mission of living His example in all we do, and spreading His love to all.
Kelly is survived by her beloved husband Tim Gaffney; parents Ted and Tricia Nelson; sisters Taylor Davis (Sam), Alice Nelson; and brother Patrick Nelson. She was preceded in death by paternal grandparents Cliff and Alice Nelson, maternal grandparents Pacaud and Phyllis Bell, and aunt Jeanne Bell Meyer.
SERVICES: The family will receive friends beginning with a rosary at 5pm, and the visitation continuing until 8:30 pm on Sunday, April 23rd at St. Mary's Catholic Church. Mass of Christian Burial and reception will be held Monday, April 24th at St. Mary's Catholic Church at 11:00 am. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery at 2:00pm.
The family requests memorials be made in Kelly's name to Sacred Heart of Jesus High School, 146 McClellan Rd. Jackson, TN 38305 or St. Mary's Church Youth Center/Gym, 1665 Hwy 45 Bypass, Jackson, TN 38305.
Arrington Funeral Directors, 148 W. University Parkway, Jackson, TN 38305 731.668.1111 www.arringtonfuneralgroup.com
Memories and Condolences
for Kelly Gaffney
Sponsored by Arrington Funeral Directors and Crematory - Jackson.
April 26, 2017
I know you are managing children's projects with Mother Teresa.
Michael Puig
April 25, 2017
Did not know her, but it appears an angel was added to God's eternal kingdom. In my prayers.
Lee Warren
April 24, 2017
I pray today for the family of Kelly. You have shown great faith during this time of great loss. May God Bless you and keep you.
Phil and Debbie Colgrove
April 24, 2017
Our heartfelt sympathies to all who loved Kelly. It's been a long journey for her and you, but Mother Teresa said when we suffer, we come so close to Christ he kisses us. May His kisses bring you comfort in this sorrowful time. Be assured of our prayers.
God bless each of you,
Coach walker Walker
April 24, 2017
U are in my prayers
Susan Haney-Reagan
April 23, 2017
A beautiful angel gained her wings. So very sorry for your great loss.
Paula Scarbrough
April 23, 2017
Beautiful Angel!
Prayers for the Family!
Pam Threadgill Trella
April 23, 2017
Ted and Tricia,
I just heard of your daughter's passing. It has been over thirty years since seeing you, but my heart is saddened for you and your entire family. Please know you are in my prayers.
April 22, 2017
My name is Mary Wynne. I did n 't know Kelley and had never seen her at least not to my Knowledge. I just read her obituary and I know she must have been the joy in the lives of a lot of people. Her accomplishments that she had were phenomenal. Her compassion, degrees, and her hard work that she exhibited in her short life span were explementary. Her heavenly father awaits this Angel as sad as it may be with open arms. My sincere condolences are with you, her family, husband, and her friends . God bless you and heaven is her home !
Mary Wynne
April 22, 2017
I did n't know Kelly, and I ''ve never seen her before in my life, but reading her obituary let me know that's she must have been a very special person in the lives of a lot of people. She had done so much in her short life than people have in a lifetime. Her accomplishments brought joy to my heart. I know heaven is rejoicing to have an angel among the saints in heaven. May God richly and warmly bless her family , friends , and everyone who knew her !
REST IN heaven Precious one , your wings are on !
Michelle Gomez
April 22, 2017
I had the privledge of knowing Kelly in college and playing soccer with her. She was always smiling and had such a wonderful heart. She truly did light up the room. I pray for her love to surround her husband and family and friends through this difficult time. May your light shine forever Kelly.
Colleen Sauls
April 22, 2017
I am so very sorry for the loss of Kelly..I will be praying for peace and comfort for the Nelson family.
Brian & Gabi Cox
April 22, 2017
May your memories give you peace and comfort.. Our prayers are with you and the Gaffney family
Stewart Bruce
April 22, 2017
Tric, Ted, Tim, all the Nelson and Gaffney family,
We just heard from Jim and Janet of Kelly's passing! Kelly and all of you are in and will continue to be in our thoughts and prayers as well as the thousands she touched during her life on earth!
How we enjoyed meeting Kelly and all your children over the years in White Sulfur! What a great way to share your exceptional family spirit and love with others. The opportunity to see all of you in Knoxville in that BIG RV before the UT Notre Dame game was so special and remains vivid in our mind! So much laugher, so much love, so much excitement, and you shared it with others! Thank YOU!
Kelly went on to become quite the angel while on earth; an example for others to follow around the world! i am not surprised as you, Tric and Ted are "givers" in every way! I know Kelly brought an enormous about of joy and love your way! How fortunate you and others were to experience Kelly's love and passion for God, his awesome creation as well as purpose!
Her commitment to making a difference in the lives of others will continue in heaven; side by side with the Lord and your loved ones!
Peace and love be with you all,
Stewart and Mary Lou
Laura Adams Taylor
April 22, 2017
Tricia and family,I have been following Kelly's journey on Facebook and want to send my thoughts and prayers to your family. Reading her story and seeing the pictures, her beautiful smile, and being a mom too. I can not begin to know what you are going through. I know that God's grace and strength will be with your family. Sincerely,Laura Adams Taylor
Lynn Williams
April 22, 2017
My deepest like ve and prayers remain with you all !!
Bobbie Donnelly
April 22, 2017
You inspired many Kelly, especially me with your faith and courage, not to mention love of all especially for your God.
RIP dear........
Bobbie Donnelly, Catholic Church of Ascension, Memphis, TN.
Donna DeLoach
April 22, 2017
I want to thank Kelly and her husband Tim, Ted and Trish and Kelly's sisters and brother for sharing how to meet life and death head-on. Although I did not have the privilege of knowing Kelly it is obvious that in both life and death she was dedicated to helping others. I am so sorry that her family and friends do not get to have her with them longer. I wish there were a way to lesson the grief and longing for her. I will pray that Jesus holds you extra close until you can be with her and see that beautiful smile once again. With deepest sympathy,
Anna Kirk
April 22, 2017
Our deepest sympathy, our hearts and prayers are with all of you during this difficult time and in the days to come. Safe in the arms of Jesus. With loving thoughts, Glenn, Anna & famiy.
Gelato Break!
Layne Murdoch
April 22, 2017
Crossing the Mediterranean: Naples to Capri, Italy
Layne Murdoch
April 22, 2017
Lisa and Bill Haltom
April 21, 2017
Kelly has a soul of kindness. She was beautiful, is beautiful and will continue to be beautiful. Our prayers for Kelly and for her family and friends.
Stephanie Carter
April 21, 2017
So so sorry for your loss. I knew Kelly a little bit from the therapy and learning center, she worked with my son a couple times. I've been keeping up with your blog on her this whole journey. She was so sweet. May the Lord give you peace that only he can.
George Googe
April 21, 2017
Becky and I send our deepest sympathy and prayers for the family.
John Thompson
April 21, 2017
My condolences go out to all friends and family members of Kellys
Dale Brown
April 21, 2017
Kelly will always be remembered for her smile, and the fact she proclaimed the Gospel every day of her life. You are all in my prayers.
Jennifer Gillahan
April 21, 2017
The soul's journey is difficult here on earth but it is amazing and beautiful beyond this physical plane - my heart is saddened for those that Kelly had to leave behind. My prayers go out and positive energy goes out for the Nelson's, Tim, and all other friends and family during this difficult journey of grief. Kelly wrap your wings around all your loved ones ❤
Kallie Archer
April 21, 2017
I was a grade lower the Kelly at St Marys, every time I saw her in the halls she always had a beautiful smile on her face and she looked beautiful every day!! This news sadness me as Kelly and Tim just celebrated their 2 year anniversary. Rest in peace Kelly
jeff & dana MCRAE
April 21, 2017
we are very sorry for your loss.We know Patrick and had met Mr Ted once or twice. your families will be in our thoughts and prayers.
John &Bonnie Cosgrove
April 20, 2017
We have followed this difficult journey and send love and offer continued prayers for Tim and both his and Kelly's families.May God's peace surround you.
Kathryn Lowder
April 20, 2017
My daughter, Sarah also died from ovarian cancer. I do not know you but my prayers and hugs are coming your way. You do not know me but I go to see a very good friend of Kelly's, Lauren Barlow. She is treating me for my daughter's death and I want you all to know that people care and think about all your family. Please remember your Kelly all the time.
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