With deep sadness, family and friends are mourning the passing of Rita “Ree Ree” Kelly Brown, a beloved wife, aunt, grandmother, and cherished member of the Edmonton, Kentucky, community. Rita passed away on Monday, July 20, 2026, at the age of 67, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, faith, and devotion that will continue to live on through the many lives she touched.
Born on August 9, 1958, in Green County, Kentucky, Rita was the daughter of the late Leroy Harrison Kelly and Shirley Temple Posey Kelly. She was also preceded in death by her brother, David Michael Kelly. Throughout her life, Rita carried forward the strength, compassion, and values instilled in her by her family, qualities that guided her in every chapter of her journey.
Rita dedicated many years of her professional life to working as a bookkeeper, where she was admired for her diligence, accuracy, and strong sense of responsibility. Her commitment to her work reflected the dependable and hardworking nature that those around her knew and respected. She approached every responsibility with care and dedication, earning the trust and appreciation of colleagues and friends.
Beyond her career, Rita was a woman of deep faith and was a valued member of Maple Hill Church. Her devotion, kindness, and willingness to serve others made her a treasured part of her church family. Her faith was an important source of strength throughout her life and was reflected in the love and compassion she shared with those around her.
Those who knew Rita will remember her for her warm heart, gentle spirit, and the joy she found in life’s simple blessings. She loved tending to her garden, preserving vegetables through canning, and spending meaningful moments surrounded by family and friends. Her home was filled with love, laughter, and treasured memories. Rita’s affection for her cats also reflected her nurturing and caring nature.
Above all, Rita was devoted to her family. She shared a loving bond with her husband, Billy Brown of Edmonton, KY, who remained by her side through life’s joys and challenges. She was a loving presence in the lives of her stepdaughters, Tabatha England (Aaron) and Brittany Grissom (Jr. Ray), and she cherished her special nieces, Amanda Patterson (Jason) and Rebecca Pruitt (Josh), whom she loved as daughters.
Rita’s legacy continues through her grandchildren: Miranda, Chase, McKenzie, Easton, Lilly, Katie, Camden, Abigail, Audrey, and Oliver. The love, guidance, and generosity she shared with them will remain a treasured gift they carry throughout their lives.
Funeral services for Rita Kelly Brown will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, July 23, 2026, at Jessie-Wilson Funeral Home, with burial to follow at Maple Hill Cemetery. Visitation will take place Wednesday from 4:00–8:00 p.m. and continue Thursday after 8:00 a.m. at the funeral home. Services will be officiated by Bro. Nick Fields and Bro. Roger Poynter.
Heartfelt condolences are extended to Rita’s husband, children, nieces, grandchildren, extended family, friends, church family, and all who are mourning this tremendous loss. May they find comfort in the beautiful memories she created, strength in the love she shared, and peace in knowing that her kindness and legacy will never be forgotten.
May Rita “Ree Ree” Kelly Brown rest in eternal peace.
Forever loved. Forever remembered.