Carolyn Ann Hester Kelly, 77, of Tifton passed away peacefully Monday, January 5, 2026, at Legacy Village in Tifton. Her funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, January 10, 2026, in the Chapel of Bowen-Donaldson Home for Funerals with the Rev. Josh Bennett and the Rev. Nat McCalvin officiating. Mrs. Kelly will be laid to rest at Oak Ridge Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Saturday, January 10, 2026, in the Chapel of Bowen-Donaldson Home for Funerals from 1:00 p.m. until the hour of the service.
Born March 31, 1948, to Samuel Alton “Bud” Hester and Willie Mae Newell Hester. She lived a life marked by faith, dedication to family, and service to others.
She was married to Freddie Kelly. Carolyn was a loving mother to Steven Kelly (Melissa), Paul Kelly, Denise Hughes (Aaron), and Chris S. Kelly (Jade). She was a proud and cherished grandmother to Chris P. Kelly, Lawson Mohler (Caroline), Pierce Kelly, Kristen Hughes, Emily Hughes, Jacob Hughes, Jalyn Kelly, Jayci Kelly, Case Kelly, and Jayna Kelly.
Carolyn dedicated her professional life to public service, working with Child Support Enforcement and the Clerk of Court, where she was known for her diligence and compassion.
She is survived by her sisters, Brenda Gershon (Harold), Peggy Lindsey (John), and Shirlene Goodrich, as well as her sister-in-law, Sue Hester. She was preceded in death by her brothers, Donald Hester and James Hester (Lynne). She is also survived by her husband’s siblings, Carl Kelly (Brenda) and Susan Kelly.
A woman of deep faith, Carolyn was a devoted member of Oak Grove Baptist Church. She faithfully served the Lord through missions and church work and previously served as President of the Mell Baptist WMU. Her quiet strength, servant’s heart, and love for ministry touched many lives.
Carolyn will be remembered for her unwavering faith, love for her family, and lifelong commitment to serving others. Her legacy of kindness and devotion will continue through all who knew and loved her.
Memorial gifts may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association SW GA Regional Office, 2402 Tift Avenue North, Suite 102, Tifton, GA 31794, Traditions Hospice, 126 South Access Road, Chula, GA 31733, or the Bird’s Nest Thrift Store, 345 Commerce Way, Tifton, GA 31794.