Cynthia Kay Kelly

Cynthia was born in Omaha, Nebraska on February 7, 1943 to parents Oscar & Joyce Burlison.

After completing high school in Germany, Cynthia returned to the U.S. with just $25 in her pocket. She worked several jobs including admin, accounting, and as a teachers aide. Her main career was with the Social Security Administration, which she retired from in 1998. Along the way, she happened to meet a young airman named Henry Kelly Jr on a blind date with someone else. After the blind date Henry called Cynthia and they remained devoted to each other for over 58 years.

Cynthia enjoyed her retirement years by playing tennis, working out, knitting, traveling, and being "Nana" to her grandkids. After being diagnosed with lung cancer in 2010, her strength, sheer will, and positive attitude ensured she would still have a high quality of life and love in her later years. Cynthia was the matriarch of the Mitchell family of Omaha. Being the oldest sibling of 8, Cynthia had a lot of responsibilities as a young lady. This experience played a big part in her life as many people from siblings, friends, and family members often called for support and advice. One thing consistently said about Cynthia was that she was very direct and didn't just tell you what you wanted to hear. She was genuine, honest, and caring. Family was always important to her and it always came first. On holidays, birthdays, special occasions, or a general day, she was always quick with a text, note, card or an invite that always made you feel special. She will be remembered as a very loving, giving, strong, stubborn, proud, kind, beautiful person. A true love story, Henry and Cynthia passed away on the same day exactly two years apart.

Cynthia is survived by son Chuck, daughter in law Beth, and granddaughter Jaclyn. She is survived by her siblings Bette, Steve, Terry, Jennifer, Lauren, Karen, and Karl. Also, her grandkids Jake and Jackson, their parents Lesley and Paul Ahern, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Cynthia was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Henry, and son Patrick.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the organization below which was founded by Cynthia's son Chuck Kelly and his friends.

https://www.azfoundation.org/ways-to-give/give-by-impact-area/black-philanthropy/real-engagement-through-active-philanthropy/