Dona Mae (Nordell) Kelly

Dona Mae Kelly, 92, a resident of Vanndale, went to her Heavenly home, Monday, March 24, 2025, in Jonesboro. She was born on April 23, 1932, in Mellen, Wisconsin, the daughter of George and Lolah Cross Nordell.

She attended schools in Wisconsin and went on to college in Moran Valley, Illinois. She worked as a waitress for 40 years, a crossing guard at the schools for about 3 years and as a Special Education Teacher’s Aide until the age of 84. Dona joined the Christian Fellowship church and enjoyed attending Sunday School. When she was not working, she enjoyed fishing, going to the movie theater and the casinos.  She was always involved with raising her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Dona was a very loving and stubborn person, but she loved everyone, and they loved her back. Her greatest joy was spending time with her family, especially her great-grandchildren. She was the glue that held her family together and she will be missed by all who knew and loved her.

Dona was preceded in death by her parents: George and Lolah Nordell, and her husband: Melvin Kelly.

Survivors include one daughter: Wanda Strong of Vanndale, one son: Dr. Christopher Cleveland of Los Angeles, California, two granddaughters: Donna Strong and Charita Strong, six great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren.

The family will hold a home going celebration at a later date.

Cross County Funeral Service & Crematory was privileged to assist the Kelly family with arrangements. 870-587-0565 www.crosscountycremationsandfuneralservice.com

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