Ruthie Elaine Kelly

Ruthie Elaine (Owens) Kelly, 70, of Milton (formerly Leland, Mississippi), passed away on Friday, March 29, 2024, at home with her loving family.
Ruthie was born June 14, 1953, in Leland, Mississippi to the late Willis Lee (Red) Owens and Frances Owens Chapman.
Ruthie retired in 2019 and moved to Milton, Florida with her daughter. Ruthie was a former member of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Greenville, Mississippi for more than 20 years where she lovingly cared for so many children in the nursery starting their journey in faith. Ruthie, "Aunt Ruthie" to so many, had a special love for children and fostering faith. She had a heart bigger than her 4'11" body could hold, she loved so many and her generosity knew no bounds. She was an avid gardener, whether it was a vegetable or flower, she fostered their growth as she often did with everything and everyone around her.
Ruthie is preceded in death by her father, Willie Lee (Red) Owens, and younger brother, Michael Wayne Owens.
She is survived by her mother, Frances Owens Chapman; her siblings, Linda (Mike) Vardaman and Sharon Branning; children, Michelle (Cole) Wynns, Emily Kelly, and Tommy (Haley) Kelly; two grandchildren; and a plethora of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and many other memorable 'family' members that Aunt Ruthie served as a second mother/grandmother to throughout her life.
The family would like to express their deep appreciation to the family and friends who have and continue to provide support.
At Ruthie's request, no public services will be held. A private celebration of life will be held. In lieu of flowers, donations to Save the Children, www.support.savethechildren.org, can be made in Ruthie's memory.
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