Kellie Jean Smith

Kellie Jean Smith, a devoted daughter, mother, grandmother, and friend, peacefully left this world on October 16, 2024, at the age of 62. Born on February 3, 1962, in Royal Oak, Michigan, to Leonard and Beverly Southwell, Kellie was the beloved second sister in a lively family of six girls. A proud graduate of Richmond High School, she exemplified a vibrant spirit through her unwavering commitment to family, work, and her many passions.

In her younger years, Kellie was actively involved in the 4H Club and enjoyed participating in school band and choir, where her love for music blossomed. Her green thumb became legendary as she cultivated beautifully tended gardens, reflecting her deep appreciation for nature. She delighted in hunting for treasures at garage sales and created countless cherished memories with her daughters, Jessica and Leah. As a devoted grandmother, Kellie reveled in the time spent with her grandchildren, Connor and Deklyn, instilling in them her love for animals and the natural world. Her two canine companions, Lola and Daphne, were constant sources of joy and companionship.

A Celebration of Kellie’s life will be held at a later date.

Kellie is survived by her beloved daughters, Jessica (Timothy) White and Leah (Angel Vasquez) McNeely; her treasured grandchildren, Connor Patric McNeely and Deklyn Charles McNeely; her loving mother, Beverly Southwell; and her adoring sisters, Kimberly (Paul) Duetsch, Kory (Paul) Kutchen, Kirstin Jerore, Kathleen (Michael) Douglas, and Kerrin Wagner. She also leaves behind numerous cherished nieces, nephews, family, and friends.

Kellie was preceded in death by her dear father, Leonard Southwell, as well as her maternal grandparents, Margaret and Edmond Waybrant, and her paternal grandparents, Dorothy and Bernard Southwell.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to contribute to her memory through a donation at the following link: https://www.gofundme.com/f/remembering-our-beloved-mother-kellie?attribution_id=sl:ecaccfc4-51e5-44ea-8dde-1cbfa37dc278&utm_campaign=man_ss_icons&utm_content=amp8_t4&utm_medium=customer&utm_source=copy_link

Her legacy of love and kindness will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her.

A Celebration of Life will be held on November 3, 2024 at the Riverhouse Banquet Center (5 Amvet Drive, Mount Clemens, Michigan 48043) from 1:00PM - 4:00PM.

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