Sheila Ann Kelly

She was born on May 25, 1955 in Quantico, Virginia to Harry R. Brown and Madeline A. Brown. She grew up in a military family, and spent her childhood living in Virginia, Hawaii and California, before her father retired from the United States Marine Corp. After her father’s retirement, her family settled in Cary, North Carolina, where Sheila attended Cary Senior High School.

Sheila was a devoted wife, mother and daughter. She is survived by her husband of 33 years, Hugh M. Kelly of Cary, daughter Rachel M. Groome (Andy) of Cary; step-daughter Gabriel Smith (Marlian) of Wilmington; mother Madeline A. Brown of Cary; sister Tammy Grinnell (Robert) of Tampa. She is preceded in death by her father, Harry R. Brown.

Sheila had a successful 20 + year career at Glaxo, which came to an end due to her declining health. Despite her health issues, Sheila was a fighter and her strong faith in God and spirituality carried her through the difficult times in her life.

Her immense love and compassion also extended to animals and creatures of all kind. She was a great lover of all animals, and rescued a countless number of strays, many of which ended up as permanent residents of her home.

Sheila was one of the sweetest and most compassionate people on the planet. Her love and compassion shone through, whether it be volunteering at church or through random acts of kindness. She would always greet you with a warm smile, and she positively touched everyone that she met.

A funeral mass will be held at 11:00 am on Monday March 18, 2019 at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, 2906 Anderson Drive, Raleigh, NC 27608.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Sheila’s honor to the SPCA of Wake County or The Lupus Foundation.