Wilafay Kelly Picklesimer

Wilafay Kelly Picklesimer
1930-2025
"Like a flower in God's garden, she bloomed with beauty, love, and grace."
Wilafay Kelly Picklesimer age 95, of Ashland, Kentucky, passed away peacefully at Community Hospice on October 30, 2025.
Wilafay was born on a beautiful Summer's day on July 21, 1930. She was the blessing of the late Arby and Phoebe Susan Ison Kelly. Wilafay was a graduate of Lawrence County High School, and she furthered her education at Morehead State where she obtained a degree in Education. She loved teaching and was the first cosmetology teacher at the Ashland Area Vocational School.
Wilafay stood firm on her faith and was a member of the Meade Station Church Of God. The church was where Wilafay felt the closest to God and at peace. She was also a member of the Eastern Star. Wilafay also enjoyed being outside in the beauty and sweet smell of her flower garden. Working outside in her yard brought her great joy. Wilafay was very talented when it came to working with her hands, especially when it came to sewing. Every piece she created was stitched together with love and care.
Wilafay lived a long and beautiful life rooted in faith, kindness, and purpose. Her gentle spirit, generous heart, and unwavering love for her family will forever be remembered by those blessed to know her. Though she has left this earthly home, her soul rests peacefully in the presence of her Lord.
Wilafay leaves behind one sister Pat Reed of OH, two grandchildren William Rose Jr. and his wife Angela and Brandon M. Rose and his wife Sara, several great-grandchildren, and one devoted daughter-in-law of whom she considered a daughter Paula Shockey and her husband Larry Catlettsburg, KY.
In addition to her parents, Wilafay is enjoying a Heavenly Reunion with her husband John Picklesimer, one son William Jeffery Rose, one sister Roberta Lynch, and one very special friend, Patty Stanley.
A memorial service to honor the life of Wilafay will be held on Friday, November 7, 2025, Bowling Cemetery on Music Branch. The service will begin at 1:00pm with Pastor Rob Jordan officiating.
Online condolences may be sent to the family from our website at kilgorecollierfuneralhome.com or on Facebook at Neal-Kilgore & Collier Funeral Home.
Neal-Kilgore & Collier is honored to be serving the family of Wilafay Kelly Picklesimer.