Dorothy Kay Lamb Kelly, 77, of Tullahoma sadly left this life at 11:22 a.m. on Jan. 3, 2025 at Ascension St. Thomas in Murfreesboro surrounded by her loving and adoring family.

 Kay was born on Dec. 18, 1947 in Shelbyville, to Anner and Howard Lamb. She was a 1965 graduate of Shelbyville Central High School, went on to complete The Beauty School of Cosmetology and a graduate of Middle TN State University. Kay taught cosmetology for years and owned and operated three beauty salons.

 In her later years, Kay became a real estate broker and agent. She had a passion and talent for decorating and designing homes. She had a style about her that shined and was noticed by all who had the pleasure of knowing her. In 1994, Kay was happily married to Joseph Hugh Kelly who was her dance partner in life for more than 30 years at the time of her death.

 Kay was preceded in death by her parents; Howard and Anner Lamb and brother; John Lamb.  She is survived by her loving husband, Joe Kelly. Sons; Jason R. Vincent (Ofelia) of Unionville, Jonathan R. Vincent (Frances) of Shelbyville and Joey Kelly (Jenny) of Tullahoma. Grandchildren; Jarrett Vincent, Allison Vincent, Alexa Vincent, Amy Vincent, Bethany Kelly, Benjamin Kelly and Amanda Solomon. Other family; LaNell Bishop (Michael), Eddie Adams, Sandra Davis (Bobby), Freddie Adams, Tony Adams (Dawn), Cindy Johnson (Alan). Numerous nieces and nephews that loved her dearly. Many wonderful friends, neighbors and clients and her very best friend, Beverly Beam who held a big piece of her heart.

 Besides spending time with her family and friends, Kay had a passion for shopping, traveling and caring for her dog Koke. She touched many lives with her generosity and passion for life.

 Family and friends attended a celebration of life Jan. 5, 2025. Funeral services were held Monday, Jan. 6, 2025 in the Kilgore Funeral Home chapel with Pastor Kris Roberts officiating. Entombment followed at Rose Hill Memorial Gardens with David Adams, Bobby Davis, Bob Lindeman, Joe Kelly, Jr, Ethan Von Zandbergen, and Joey Beech serving as pallbearers. For those who wish, the family asks that donations in Kay’s memory be made to The Henry Center c/o First Methodist Church – 208 W. Lauderdale St. Tullahoma, TN 37388.

Kilgore Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Tullahoma News – Jan. 8, 2025