Oretha Le'Zol Kelly

July 31, 1923 - April 3, 2020

Oretha Le'Zol Kelly was the third of seven children born to Osborne L. and Virlin Dawson. She was born on her fathers' birthday July 31,1923 Her parents, husband, and six siblings preceded her in death. Oretha married her 1st husband , Robert Gardley after high school. Their first child, Portia Ann, died at birth. Mae Etta along as their second child. The married between Robert and Oretha didn't last. After divorcing Robert Gardley, Oretha met and married John Kelly in 1945. This marriage lasted 71 years until his death. Mae Etta was their only child. She was always active in church. Her parents were among the founding member of Macedomia Baptist Church of Altus, Oklahoma. Oretha was especially active in the Music Ministry where she played piano and sang until her health failed and she was forced to relocate to Michigan. She immediately joined Gethsemane Missionary Baptist Church in Westland, MI. Our Pastor, Rev. Dr. John E. Duckworth assigned her to GMBC Mother's Ministry. Oretha retire as a nurse from Jackson County Memorial Hospital after 38 years of service. Oretha gained her wings April 3,2020 at approx. 5:pm. She leaved to cherish her memory one (1) daughter, Mae Etta Bates; two (2) granddaughters, Michelle McNutt and Kelli (Don) Barnes; two (2) great - grandchildren, NaToyia Robinson and Lorenzo Matthews II; one (1) great-great-grandchild, Anthony Graves II; and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, friends, and 2 church families..