Kathleen (Leaf) Kelley, loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away unexpectedly on January 8th, 2024, in Antrim County, Michigan, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and love. Born on April 5th, 1957, in East Cleveland, Ohio, Kathleen was the daughter of William and Karole Leaf. 

From an early age, Kathleen showed a deep compassion for others, which led her to pursue a career in nursing. She graduated from Main Endwell High School and went on to earn a bachelor's degree in nursing from the State University of New York at Binghamton. Kathleen's dedication to her profession led her to become a registered nurse, and she began her career at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, where she worked tirelessly in the ICU and CCU. Her exceptional skills and caring nature eventually led to her promotion to the position of Charge Nurse. Upon having children, she shifted to home healthcare and then worked as a nurse at an eye surgical center in East Amherst, New York. 

On September 27th, 1980, Kathleen married the love of her life, Roger Kelley, in a beautiful ceremony in Endicott, NY. Their love and commitment to each other grew stronger with each passing year, and they shared a remarkable 43 years together. 

In addition to her loving husband, Kathleen is survived by her three children, Kyle, Colin, and Meghan, as well as three grandchildren Abby, Lola, and Benjamin. She was a devoted mother and grandmother who was always providing unwavering support and guidance to her children. Kathleen is also survived by her two sisters, Lisa Hackett and Judy Powers as well as her brothers-in-law James Hackett and Michael (Lisa) Kelley. 

Kathleen had a zest for life and pursued numerous hobbies and interests. Living by the lake with her husband, she enjoyed paddle-boarding, boating, and swimming, embracing the beauty of nature. She dedicated time to her physical and mental well-being, attending yoga and Pilates classes regularly. Kathleen was an avid reader, finding solace and inspiration within the pages of books. However, her greatest joy came from spending time with her husband, children, and grandchildren in their backyard, creating treasured memories. 

Described as loving, kind, sweet, and thoughtful, Kathleen touched the lives of everyone she encountered. Her intelligence and resourcefulness were matched only by her patience and generosity. As an incredible wife, she supported Roger through thick and thin, and as a fantastic sister, she was a pillar of strength for Lisa and Judy. Kathleen possessed an unwavering commitment to her family and friends, always going above and beyond to make a positive difference in their lives. 

Kathleen's passing is preceded by her parents, William and Karole Leaf, her sister-in-law, Barbara Higgins, and her best friend, Carrie Greenberg. Although her absence leaves a massive void in all of our lives, the Kelley family is extremely grateful for the condolences and kind words received during this difficult time. They take solace in the belief that Kathleen is smiling down upon them each day, and they hold onto the hope of a joyful reunion in the future.