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Obituary For Marian Elizabeth Kelley
Marian Elizabeth Kelley passed away peacefully on August 20, 2026, in Canton, Ohio, surrounded by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Born on November 5, 1927, to Mary Frances Robinson, Marian lived a long life centered on family, work, and lasting connections with those around her.
Marian graduated from McKinley High School, where she played basketball and volleyball and was a member of the traveling softball team. She later became the first Black secretary to work in City Hall under the late Harry S. Miller and, after many years of public service, retired from the Unemployment Office.
Marian leaves to cherish her memory her children, Rinaldo “Ricky” Barkley I, Terrylae Barkley Tuck, Sheila Barkley Bennett, and stepdaughter Janetta Kelly; grandchildren Sheila (Jason) Campbell, Tammi (Richard) Nelson, Rinaldo (Lisa) Barkley II, Tanganica (Chad) Tucker, Kionna Stokes, Robin Iman,Angel Barkley, Jacqlyn Barkley (Vincent) and Johnathan Kelley; special grandson Alpha Bennet Barkley (Jamie); special great-granddaughter Chelaeh Frazier; 41 great-grandchildren; 35 great-great-grandchildren; sister-in-law Frances Barkley; nephews Howard (Denise) Robinson and William Barkley; nieces and goddaughters Allemah Narsullah Muhammad (Anita) and Delonda Hawkins (Dee Dee); a special daughter, Sharon (John) Johnson; and a special niece, Christine Smith.
Marian was preceded in death by her husband, John R. Kelley; her first husband and the father of her children, Jasper Barkley “Stormy”; her mother, Mary F. Robinson; brother, Howard M. Robinson Sr.; sister-in-law, Eula P. Robinson “Sue”; nieces, Kathy Perrin and Sandra Robinson; nephew, Robbie Robinson; granddaughter, Lisa Barrino; grandsons, Domiono Nelson, Joshua Nelson, and Javon Hood; cousin, Margaret “Domingo” Tavares; and her best friend, Norman Hall.
The Celebration of Life Services will be held on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, at The Living Word Christian Fellowship, 701 Broad Avenue NW, Canton, Ohio, with an 11:00 AM public viewing, followed by the funeral at 12:00 p.m. with her nephew Howard Robinson Jr. officiating. After the committal ceremony, the interment will follow at serene meadows of Forest Hill Cemetery.
The family extends sincere thanks to her nursing staff, Whitney Watson, Amy Hostic, Shalonda Gialluca, Davon Burton “Dash,” Gaylon Sweat, and the rest of the Sanctuary nursing staff.
For a caring farewell, at this time of intimate need and personal loss, the family of Marian Elizabeth Kelley elected to entrust the Ministry of Comfort & Care, along with Transitional After-Care Arrangements to the J. E. Washington Funeral Services, 1617 Third St. NE, Canton, Ohio, Phone: 330-454-3901. Marian Elizabeth Kelley will be forever loved and missed by her family.
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Peace & Serenity Dishgarden was sent for Marian Elizabeth Kelley - August 23, 2026
Revelation 21:4 NKJV [4] And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away."
Dear Mama, Heaven's gain is our earthly lost. Thank you for all the warmth and love that you added to my life. Your presence and memory will always be embedded in my heart. Rest in heavenly peace. Always in love Netta ♥️
Red Carpet Ladies Time to say,good bye to MY AUNT MARION. Technically she was my cousin. By when I was growing up if someone was old enough to be your Mother You said. AUNT MARION not cousin Marion. Anyway, My Couson Marion always step out the house like going to a Red Carpet Affair. From Christmas to New Year Day they wore Full length Fur Coat, High Heels 👠 and red lipstick 💄 💋. As a child I was just at awe at how BEAUTIFUL FABULOUS AND CLASSY MY AUNTS AND COUSINS were. And we were just going to each others Homes for the Holidays My cousin MARION KELLY set the Bar High for the next Generation. She set a Standard of EXCELLENCE. I will miss her greatly. She called me "little Broy". I was the youngest girl in my family. And Heavens reward is our loss. Love you forever Your little cousin Apostle Diana Broy Mabry 🦁 🙏🏼 👑
Great Grandma You always had a smile and made sure you seen your triplets when we were in town. I love you so much and grateful for the years you gave us!!!
Rih ms Marian u will be missed
Remembering you at Church being one of the Mothers. You always had a smile and in good spirits, just a beautiful Soul may you rest in eternal peace. Sending prayers, love & Light to the Family and Friends, May God give you comfort during this difficult time🙏🏾❤️
To the family yall are truly blessed to have had her all these yrs. She was truly a beautiful woman and was loved by many n will be missed by more. Job well done thy good and faithful sevant.... rip n heaven 🙏 😪
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