Valerie Elaine Hamm Kelly, affectionate known as, “Tilly”, “Mother Kelly”, was the matriarch, rock and cornerstone of the Kelly family. Her Sunrise was guaranteed on January 1, 1953 at Sanguinetti, Clarendon, Jamaica, W.I. to Parents, Clarise (Dyer) Hamm and Isreal Hamm.
On January 21, 2022, at 7:16 am, HER SUN SET and her Father called her home shortly after her 69th Earth day (Birthday) in Snellville, Georgia.
In early December, 1988, Valerie along with her children, left the warm climate of wood, water and sunshine (Sweet Jamaica) and migrated to the cold Winter season of the United States, Brooklyn, New York to be with her husband Barrington and Daughter Yolande.
Valerie was fighter, a provider, and every move she made, was in the name of her family. After all, she was trying to raise four boys, Trevor, Alton, Garfield and Donald into men.
In New York, she worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant for healthcare union, 1199 SEIU in New York until she retired around 2009.
During her employment, she nurtured and cared for all those that were within her care. She built relationships with and comforted her patients through their difficult time in life.
She had a giving heart and was involved in several social activities that brought her community or the residents of her apartment building together.
In Baltimore, she helped organized a community end of Summer Block Party that is talked about even to this day.
She enjoyed fellowshipping with others which is only attributed to her foundation. Her Mother would always cook a big pot and would say you never know who may stop by. Valerie echoed the same throughout her life.
Valerie had a giving heart. This is only a true testament that she was a product of her environment. Among many things, she enjoyed cooking. All those who were blessed to be in her presence would testify about the flavor and the sweet aroma of her Curry Chicken, Jerk Chicken, and other delicious dishes; and, the satisfied stomach they would walk away with because it was finger licking good, even to the last rice grain.
Valerie was direct and to the point. However, her tender heart is full of love. When she loves, it’s deep and strong. She is a rear gem.
In death, she is preceded by her Father, Mother, (2) Sisters, (3) brothers, and (1) Grandchild.
Valerie is survived by her children: Trevor, Alton, Garfield, Yolande and Donald, “The wash belly” .
Additionally, (14) Grandchildren, (8) Great Grand Children, (5) siblings.
Condolences may be left online at https://www.borgwardtfuneralhome.com/obituary/ValerieTilly-Kelly and on Facebook at Valerie Kelly’s page, at https://www.facebook.com/people/Valerie-Kelly-Hamm/100010884131200/
The Kelly family wishes to extend their sincere gratitude to all the friends and family who took that 5 seconds to check in on her. Thank you all for being true lifelong friends. Mommy! We listened, and the foundation you provided us is solid.
Be well in your Father’s Arms.
At the family's request, if you choose to send flowers, they would prefer the arrangements to match the family's colors of white and peach.
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