Mrs. Irene Fields Kelly

Mrs. Irene Fields Kelly, a devoted mother, beloved family matriarch, and cherished member of the Forrest City community, was born on December 26, 1951, in Forrest City, Arkansas, to the late George Arthur Fields and Velma Mae Williams Fields. A lifelong resident of St. Francis County, Mrs. Kelly was deeply rooted in faith, family, and service. She dedicated her life to the enrichment and well-being of others, both within her home and throughout the community she loved. Known for her nurturing spirit and unwavering strength, she lived a life defined by compassion, resilience, and grace. Her wisdom, generosity, and steadfast love formed the foundation of her family, and her legacy will continue to guide and inspire generations to come. Mrs. Kelly was lively, outgoing, and full of joy. She had a wonderful sense of humor and loved her family deeply. She found joy in the simple pleasures of life — solving crossword puzzles, sewing, and watching classic Westerns were among her favorite pastimes. A talented cook, she was known for preparing meals that brought loved ones together around the table. She accepted Christ at a young age and remained a devoted lifelong member of Madison Light Missionary Baptist Church, where her faith continued to grow and sustain her throughout her life. A proud member of the Forrest City High School Class of 1970 — one of the first integrated graduating classes — Mrs. Kelly valued education as a path to opportunity and service. She continued her studies at East Arkansas Community College, where she earned an associate degree, and later attended the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. Following her education, she returned home to Forrest City and began a meaningful career with the Community Resource Development Center (CRDC), where she served as a Parental Involvement Supervisor. In that role, she worked passionately to strengthen the bond between families and schools, helping parents become more engaged partners in their children’s education. She continued this important work faithfully until her health declined. Mrs. Kelly’s life was a testament to the power of love, perseverance, and faith. She believed deeply in the importance of family and devoted herself to creating a home filled with warmth, understanding, and encouragement. Her work in family enrichment reflected the same values she lived by — uplifting others, nurturing potential, and fostering strong bonds that endure beyond a lifetime. She was preceded in death by her parents, George Arthur Fields and Velma Mae Williams Fields. Mrs. Kelly passed peacefully at her home on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at the age of 73. She leaves to cherish her memory three devoted children: Mr. John Kelly of Forrest City, AR; Felicia Kelly (Delisgo) King of Forrest City, AR; and Brandon Coleman of Forrest City, AR. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Deontra Kelly, Devin Kelly, and Braylon Wright, all of Forrest City, AR; Eldrick Wright, Jr. of Little Rock, AR; Shawn Wright of Forrest City, AR; and Journee Kelly of Champaign, IL. Her memory will also be cherished by Opal Fields of Lancaster, TX, and Patricia Fields Mays of Arlington, TX, along with a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and many beloved friends who will forever honor her life and treasure the love she shared. Though she is no longer with us in body, the light of Mrs. Irene Fields Kelly’s love, the strength of her faith, and the beauty of her spirit will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Mrs. Irene Fields Kelly

December 26, 1951 - October 4, 2025