Charlene L. Kelley, known lovingly to family and friends as Charley, passed away on September 5, 2026, in Columbus, Georgia, at the age of 42.
Charley was born on August 15, 1984, in Valley, Alabama, and she carried the warmth and spirit of her hometown with her throughout her life. She was a loving and kind woman whose presence brought comfort and joy to those around her. Charley will be remembered for the gentle way she cared for others, the strength she showed in daily life, and the love she shared so freely with her family.
Above all else, Charley adored her grandchildren. Mya Smith, Russell Smith III, and Paul Smith brought her immense happiness, and she treasured every moment spent with them. Her love for her children, Morgan Abercrombie, Austin Canady, and Madisyn Burke, was deep and unwavering, and she took great pride in the lives they built. Charlene’s family was the center of her world, and she found her greatest joy in being present for the people she loved.
Charley also cherished the bonds she shared with her siblings and extended family. She is survived by her brothers, Mykel Kelley and Charles Kelley, Jr., her sister, Sue Kelley, her aunts, Michelle Sanders and Christy Thompson, her uncle, Ken Moore, and cousin, Kimberly Price. These relationships were an important part of her life, and she valued the love, laughter, and support that came from being surrounded by family. She also held close the memory of those who went before her, including her parents, Connie Kelley and Charles Kelley, as well as her grandmother, Priscilla Thompson, and her grandfather, Themon Thompson.
One of the sweetest memories of Charley was her love of singing with her mother. That shared joy remained close to her heart and reflected the tenderness and connection that defined so much of her life. Whether through music, conversation, or simple acts of kindness, Charley had a way of making others feel seen and loved. Her voice, her smile, and her caring nature will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
Charlene L. Kelley leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and devotion to family. Though her time on earth was far too brief, the impact of her life will continue to be felt in the hearts of those who loved her. Her memory will be cherished always, and she will be remembered with affection, gratitude, and enduring love.
No services are scheduled at this time.
Please visit Charley’s Memorial Tribute page at www.johnsonbrownservicefh.com to leave a kind word for her family, share a memory of Charley, or light a Remembrance Candle in her memory.
Johnson Brown-Service Funeral Home of Valley is directing arrangements.
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