Claudia Innette Carroll Kelley, a loving and kind soul, left this world on November 3, 2023, in Nashville, TN. Born on March 22, 1968, Claudia was a light of creativity and love, always eager to lend a helping hand and make the world a better place.

The daughter of Dorothy Faye Carroll and the late James Claude Carroll, Claudia grew up alongside her siblings, Jerry (Leah) Carroll, Carla (Danny) Murphy, Jamie (Paul) Willis, the late Clara Goodman (Kirk), and the late Dolly Gray (Allen). Claudia carried the love and values she learned from her family, including her late grandparents Ollie and Estella Cates, William and Sally Carroll, and Ruthie Allen Runions Carroll, throughout her life.

Claudia was the cherished mother of Samantha Jackson (Tyler) and Mattingly Kelley. Her love for her children was a constant, guiding light in their lives. This love extended to her adored grandchildren, Clarissa, Hope, and Nevaeh, whom she treasured immensely. Claudia’s family was her heart, and she filled their lives with warmth and love. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, James Kelley.

In addition to her children and grandchildren, Claudia is survived by her mother, Dorothy, her siblings, Jerry, Carla, and Jamie, and several nieces and nephews. Each of these individuals were enriched by Claudia’s love and kindness, and they will carry her memory in their hearts forever.

Claudia had a passion for quilting, drawing, and coloring, hobbies she used to express her creative spirit and share her love with others. Her quilts were more than just blankets; they were tangible expressions of her love and care, stitched together with kindness and warmth. Her drawings and coloring were a testament to her creative spirit, each piece a window into her caring soul.

She loved spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren, who were the apples of her eye. She was always there to lend a listening ear or offer a comforting word, a constant source of support and love. Claudia’s kindness extended beyond her family. She was always ready to help others, her actions guided by an innate sense of empathy and compassion.

Claudia was a woman of incredible strength and resilience, her spirit unyielding in the face of life’s challenges. She was a beacon of light in the lives of many, her kindness and compassion touching all who knew her. She will be remembered as a loving mother, a doting grandmother, a caring sister, and a true friend. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of those she loved a testament to a life well-lived.

A celebration of life memorial service will be announced later. Adair Funeral & Cremation Services is assisting the family.