Martha Louise (Burns) Kelly

Martha Louise Burns Kelly, 94, of Waco, entered her heavenly reward Tuesday, March 29, 2023 after seeing many loved ones, including a new great grandson, Silas. Funeral Service will be 10 am, Saturday, April 1, 2023 at Grace Gardens Funeral Home. Burial will be at Rosemound Cemetery.

Martha was born April 10, 1928 in Moody, Texas to Silas and Effie Burns.  The family moved to the Waco area where she attended school.  Her very first job was as a car hop at the Elite Café, at the age of 13.  She met the love of her life, Rufus Kelly while on a double date with her cousin, however, he wasn’t her date.  They married when Rufus returned from WWII.  The couple raised 3 children.

Martha enjoyed jig-saw puzzles, the hard ones.  She was an accomplished seamstress, sewing much of the families clothes, she enjoyed many sewing crafts.  She was a master crafter, trying many types, with cross stitch being her favorite.  She enjoyed flowers and plants and kept them all beautiful.  Martha learned many skills from her father, who was a builder, she has built decks and even enclosed her own garage.  She was a hard worker, even tending to her own yard in her 90’s.  She was very particular and preferred to do things herself.

Martha loved her family and so enjoyed her time with them.  It was very special to have so many visit her prior to her passing in the hospital.

She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Rufus; daughter, Dona Broyles; and her six siblings.

Left to cherish her memories are her children, Ron Buckley and wife Shellie, Gwenn Kelly; 7 grandchildren;  8 great grandchildren; and numerous extended family she dearly loved.

The family extends very special gratitude to the nurses and staff of Providence Hospital 3rd floor North.

Registry for Martha Kelly