Lucille Metrailer Kelly

Lucille Metrailer Kelly died at home on July 26, 2016, 15 days after a large celebration of her 95th birthday. She was the ninth of 11 children born to Anthony and Henrietta Metrailer. She is preceded in death by nine siblings, her husband of 61 years, William T. Kelly; son William T. Kelly, Jr.; and daughters, Carolyn Kelly, Kathleen Klein and her son-in-law, Bernie Klein. She is survived by her sister, Rose Hudgens, her husband, Dr. John Howard, her sister-in-law, Mary Lou Parrish and 11 children: Cornelia Beck (Barry), Paul Kelly (Nancy), Lucille DeGostin (Rob), Margaret Lovell (Marcus), Christine Frost, Marie Bennett (Chris), Frank Kelly (Jo), John Kelly (Gwendy), Joseph Kelly (Nancy Jane), Brian Kelly (Sabrina) and Michael Kelly (Terry). Very special people in her life include her friend and loyal caregiver, Patty Boyd Kelly as well as 31 grandchildren, 31 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews Her strong faith, quick wit and deep appreciation of the support of others sustained her as she cared for her 14 children, devoted her life to her family and still found time to minister to others in need. She was a woman of beauty and grace with a warm smile and welcoming gaze. It was only later in life that she ever sat still. As a mother she was positive and supportive, set high expectations, listened well and took great joy in the unique personalities, talents and special gifts of each child. She had the organizational skills of a corporate executive, making efficient use of every opportunity to complete (or get others to complete) the activities of daily living in a large and very busy household. By her example and instruction, she taught her children to be self-sufficient and to care for and love one another. Her life was full, complete with travels across the globe and lasting memories that she cherished and spoke of until the day she died. There will be a Rosary at 6 p.m. on Friday, July 29 at Little Rock Funeral Home. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Father John Marconi on Saturday, July 30 at 10 a.m. at Our Lady of the Holy Souls Catholic Church, 1003 No. Tyler, Little Rock. Memorials may be made to Mount St. Mary Academy where she was a 1939 graduate. (3224 Kavanaugh Blvd., Little Rock, Ark. 72205) Arrangements by Little Rock Funeral Home, 8801 Knoedl Ct., (501) 224-2200. Lucille's online guestbook may be signed at www.littlerockfuneralhome.com.