Sally Kelly Obituary
O Lord,
And let perpetual light,
Shine upon them,
May they rest in peace,
Amen
Sally Ann Kelly was born 4 March 1933 in Seattle to Glen and Helen Ferguson. She passed away 31 August 2025 peacefully in Tacoma Washington. She was preceded by her parents, sister, Gayle Woolston, and husband, COL Edward Kelly.
The journey from Seattle to Tacoma was filled with travel, laughter and adventure. She dovetailed her Stanford nursing degree and became a world traveler as a 'stewardess' then became an Army wife with duty stations in Germany and throughout the United States. Her love of the water and sailing brought her great joy and a lifetime of adventures with friends. Whether in her beloved Hood Canal or riding elephants in Vietnam, Sally remained an active adventurer throughout her life.
She loved (most of the time) the Seattle Seahawks, however, never forgave Coach Carroll for the pass play call when Marshawn Lynch was in the backfield, which we all know, cost the Seahawks the Superbowl.
She is survived by her brother Robert Ferguson and four children; Kimberly Kelly, Christine and Scott Putnicki, Victor Kelly and Leslie Kelly. Her three granddaughters Sofia, Paige and Audrey remained a highlight throughout her life.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Jill Hess
September 11, 2025
I worked with Sally at Mann Elementary over twenty years ago. She was a fantastic lady and truly cared about the students she served. I will miss her sense of humor and all our chats we had. My sincere condolences to her family. Rest in Peace Sally
Ann & Dave Lewis
September 10, 2025
We have wonderful memories of Sally from our days together at Tacoma Public Schools. Sally eagerly took on some of the challenging assignments. We will remember her strong spirit fondly as we wish her family & Pat strength in their mourning & comfort as they treasure decades of memories. Dave & Ann Lewis
Kris Hirschmann
September 10, 2025
Sally was a great friend. We knew each other for nearly 40 years. We work together, traveled together and played together. She was fun, loving, kind, generous, and always in search of a new adventure.
Her long-term friend and companion, Pat Laferrier, is not mentioned in this obituary, but should have been. Pat was by her side throughout her the past 25+ years. She was with her through all the ups and downs of her Parkinson's and all of the adventures that she had traveling and living life. I know that Pat's care and caring extended Sally's life by many years. Thanks Pat for all your caring.
Sally had many long term friends all the way from her elementary school years, college years,Airline years and education years. She will be missed by many has left a hole in my heart.
Meghan Hartough-Pfeiffer
September 10, 2025
Oh Dearest Aunt Sally!
How you will be truly missed by all. I remember cruising with Sally in her boat on Hood Canal with Grandma Mary sitting shot gun right beside her. They are both pulling in the big crab and having adventures together again. Just as my cousin Courtney said- many cherished memories of Sally and the special relationship our families had. Wishing Sally and everyone who had a special relationship with her peace, healing, and comfort.
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Donna Byrne Williamson
September 9, 2025
Sally´s friendship brought such joy to me growing up and beyond. So many sweet moments that have lasted a lifetime. "A best friend is one who reaches for your hand but touches your heart." Rest in peace, Sally. -Donna Byrne Williamson
Courtney Massie
September 4, 2025
Sally was one of my Grandma Mary´s best friends and we grandchildren enjoyed lots of visits and holiday parties with her throughout our lives. I remember her kind hearted, fun and laid back nature. I will never forget fond memories on Hood Canal, her teaching us how to properly catch, cook, and crack crab. I loved hearing of Sally´s world travels in her retired years too. What a life of fun and adventure she led. Rest in peace Sally! You were and are loved.
Maura Reynolds
September 4, 2025
Sally was such a delightful friend to my Mom, Mary Hartough, even in their final days here on Planet Earth. You were such a kind-hearted human and you will be forever cherished. I hope you and Mom are having a jolly time in heaven together- with love- Maura
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