Carol Jean Kelly

Carol Jean Kelly (née Bowles) passed away on August 1, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on June 7, 1952, to Alice and James Bowles II in Keokuk, IA. A tomboy at heart, Carol fondly remembered the "good old days" of her childhood, often recalling camping trips, carefree times she spent playing outside, and the cherished moments with her grandparents who lived nearby. She graduated from Clinton High School in 1970 and continued her education at Indiana University/Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI). Later, she earned a certificate in medical coding from Ultimate Medical Academy.

Carol was well-known both professionally and personally for her strong work ethic, vibrant personality, compassionate nature, and beautiful smile. She had a remarkable ability to brighten any room and was always quick with a joke, making everyone around her feel welcomed and happy. She earned the nickname "Martha Vila" for her diverse talents, blending the skills of Martha Stewart and Bob Vila in areas like home improvement, interior decorating, cooking, baking, and even plumbing. There was nothing in the home she couldn't lend her talents to; she could fix almost anything and beautify any space. Carol was an excellent gardener, with a particular fondness for irises.

Carol's personal life was filled with joyous activities, a loving husband, and two daughters she loved "all the world." She loved spending time with family and making up silly songs. She also loved dancing and could cut a rug like nobody's business.

She is survived by her husband of 23 years, Tom Kelly; daughters, Breanne Grady and Megan Grady; grandson Hayden (Christie) Grady; great-grandson Archer; and sisters, Sharon Krahn and Karen (Kevin) White. Carol was preceded in death by her parents, James and Alice Bowles; mother-in-law, Joyce Kelly; grandparents, Edna and Herbert Baker, and James (I) and Flossie Bowles; her son, Ryan Grady; and her beloved furbabies Hawkeye, Tigger, and Charlie.

A celebration of her life will be held at a later date in Clinton, IA. In lieu of flowers, please consider making donations in Carol's name to The Wiggery of Anderson, IN, a wig shop that supports cancer patients undergoing treatment (2102 Broadway St. Ste 1.46012), or the Community Hospital Foundation [1515 Madison Avenue, Anderson, IN 46011 (Cancer Center)].