March 25, 1948 — April 11, 2026
Glenda S. Kelley, a cherished mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away on April 11, 2026, in Collierville, Tennessee. She was born in Calhoun, Georgia, and lived a life centered on love, family, and generous hospitality.
Glenda loved to travel, especially enjoying trips to the beach, but her greatest joy was being at home—tending to her garden and spending time with her family. She always cherished her memories of growing up in Sugar Valley, Georgia and her many childhood friends and classmates from Calhoun High School Class of 1966. Holidays were especially meaningful to her and were marked by days of preparation, planning, and cooking. Anyone fortunate enough to visit Glenda for a holiday or family gathering was greeted with a warm smile and a kitchen filled with home‑cooked meals, desserts, and snacks lovingly prepared just for them. Her grandchildren fondly remember “Grammy’s secret recipe for the best mashed potatoes,” a memory that reflects both her talent in the kitchen and her devotion to those she loved.
Family and friends were the heart of Glenda’s life, and she made everyone feel welcome, cared for, and valued. The love she shared was fully returned by those who knew her, and her kindness and generosity will be long remembered.
She is survived by her son, James Michael Kelley (Angie); her daughter, Cindy Brown; and her beloved grandchildren, Chase and Nick. She is also survived by her sister, Shirley Taylor Smith; nieces and nephews; as well as a number of cherished great‑nieces and great‑nephews.
Glenda was preceded in death by her husband, James E. Kelley, Jr.; her parents, Claude and Zora Bell Taylor; her twin sister, Brenda Taylor Shirley; her sister, Carolyn Joan Palmer; and her brother, Ron D. Taylor.
Glenda S. Kelley’s life was defined by love, service, and devotion to her family. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.
Visitation will be 10:00 a.m. Friday, April 17 until service begins at 11:00 a.m. at Memorial Park Funeral Home and interment immediately following at Memorial Park Southwoods Cemetery.
The family requests donations be made to the Baptist Reynolds Hospice House @ 1520 W Poplar Ave., Collierville, Tennessee, 38017.
