Helen Edith Kelley

Helen Edith Kelley, 92, passed away peacefully at her home on Sellars Creek on August 24, 2026.

Helen was born on September 20, 1933, at Eaton Maternity Hospital in Shelley, Idaho. She was the fourth of six children born to Vestal and Edith Christensen. She grew up in Taylor, where she attended the first eight grades at Taylor School before attending Shelley High School and graduating in 1951.

As a child, Helen spent her winters in Taylor and her summers at the family ranch on Sellars Creek. It was there that her love for the mountains, nature, and the outdoors began—a love that remained with her throughout her entire life.

Helen married Gerald Kelley in November 1951. Together, they made their home on the farm east of Shelley for nearly 75 years. They were blessed with four children: Karla (Kurtis) Tew, Dale (Kayrene) Kelley, Karen (Dan) Eldredge, and Craig (Andrea) Kelley.

Helen and Gerald continued farming in Shelley and also ran cattle in Bone. In 1990, they moved to Bone, where they spent the next 13 years, enjoying both winters and summers on Sellars Creek. They built a home where their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren continue to gather, work, and play together every weekend.

Mom was known for her beautiful yard and the many flowers she lovingly planted from seed and shared with family and friends. She found great joy in working in her flower gardens, sewing, painting, and cake decorating. She was also known for her wonderful cooking and the many meals she lovingly prepared for her family.

More than anything, Helen treasured her family. She leaves behind a legacy of four children, 16 grandchildren, 39 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. The love she gave to each of them will continue through the generations.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Gerald; a granddaughter; and three great-grandchildren.

Helen will be deeply missed by her family and all who knew and loved her. Her love of family, her beautiful gardens, her kindness, and her love for the mountains and Sellars Creek will remain a lasting part of the memories she leaves behind.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, August 28, 2026 at the Shelley East Stake Center, 325 East Locust Street. The family will receive friends Thursday evening from 6:00 p.m. till 7:30 p.m. at Nalder Funeral Home, 110 W Oak Street, Shelley and Friday morning from 9:30 till 10:45 a.m. at the church. Burial will be in the Shelley Hillcrest Cemetery.

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