Margie Kelly, 91, of Lincoln, passed away in the early hours of Saturday, December 17. Margie was born to Lawrence and Bertha (Armbruster) Long and was raised on a farm north of Falls City. Her 2 brothers and 1 sister were all considerably older than her, so she was in many ways an only child growing up. She had a much more active family life after marrying Richard Kelly of Palmyra and raising 5 children while working as an elementary school teacher. She loved children, both her own and her many students. She especially loved teaching kids to read and seeing the world come alive to them.

She taught in a country school near Falls City while earning her degree from Peru State College. Later, she taught in Plattsmouth, Lincoln, and Burr.

After retiring from teaching, she enjoyed working in the kitchen at the Syracuse hospital. After moving to Lincoln in 2000, she delighted in a volunteer job with Foster Grandparents, working as a teacher aide. She was also active in Red Hatters, Bethany Women’s Club, Catholic Daughters, and played cards at Havelock Senior Center. Her children will always remember her grit in overcoming challenges and succeeding on her own with little help or guidance.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, 2 brothers and 1 sister. She leaves behind 5 children Sonya of Omaha, Yvonne of Lincoln, Karyn (Mike) Stroup of Lincoln, Kevin (Julie) of Bates City, Missouri, and Bob of Unadilla as well as 6 grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren, and other family and friends. Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, Dec. 21 at 10 a.m. at St. John’s Catholic Church in Lincoln. Burial will follow at St. Leo’s Catholic Cemetery in Palmyra at 12:30 p.m.

Rosary will be held on Tuesday, Dec. 20 at 7 p.m. at St. John’s Catholic Church with family greeting friends starting at 6 p.m.

Memorials are suggested to the family for later designation.

Arrangements By: Fusselman Allen Harvey Funeral Home, Syracuse Condolences to www.fusselmanallenharvey.com