Kaye Rasmessen Kelly

Kaye Rasmessen Kelly, of Springfield, passed away peacefully after a short illness on Thursday, September 19, 2013 surrounded by her husband John, daughter Kathleen and son Scott. Kaye was born on Christmas Eve, 1943, in Chicago, Illinois. Her father was a career Air Force officer, and her mother a talented singer and actress. Kaye grew up as an Air Force “Brat”, travelling around the world with her dad’s changing Air Force assignments. As a result of one of those assignments, Kaye was attending the University of Maryland, Munich, where she met her husband-to-be, John, then a Second Lieutenant in the Army. She subsequently graduated from the University of Maryland in College Park. She and John then married at Bolling Air Force Base, and began their wonderful 48 years of marriage, once again travelling around the world as an Army wife and mother. Her parents’ influence was reflected in her life of service to and love of country and family.

Kaye is survived by her loving husband, Colonel John J. Kelly, US Army Retired, daughter Kathleen (Glen) MacDonald and their four sons, Sean, Douglas, Kyle and Gavin; son Scott (Kathleen) Kelly and their daughter, Brigid; and son Brian (Robin) and their daughters Olivia and Sofia.

Kaye was very proud to make her home a warm and loving sanctuary for her family. She was a supportive Army wife, a nurturing mom, a devoted grandma, and a loyal friend. Kaye had to be the best shopper in the entire world! She always knew just exactly what to give everyone. Once you were in her heart, she was your biggest cheerleader. Kaye’s main hobbies were Bridge and genealogy. She is now in the hands of God. Her pain and suffering are over. But those who knew her and her beautiful smile will never forget this wonderful, kind, loving wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. May she rest in peace.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network.

Visitation will be held at Demaine Funeral Home, 5308 Backlick Road, Springfield, VA on Tuesday, September 24, 2013 from 2 pm to 4 pm and 6 pm to 7 pm with Memorial Services to follow from 7 pm to 8 pm.

Burial will be at Arlington National Cemetery at a time and date yet to be determined.