Christine J. Kelly

Christine Jane Kelly, formerly of Elverson Christine Jane Kelly, nee Payton, passed away on the evening of Dec. 10, 2014, at Tel Hai Retirement Community, where she had been a resident since shortly after suffering a stroke in April. She was 86. Born in Bridgeton, N.J., Christine was a graduate of Haverford High School. She married Joseph R. Kelly in 1947. She devoted herself to her four children, Ken, D. Kelly, Chris, and Sophia, and courageously stood with them no matter what adversity they faced. She would later show the same devotion to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Christine was a strong woman, facing personal adversity with bravery and determination. She spent the years following the divorce constantly searching for ways to improve herself, and in the process became adventurous - sometimes, she would admit, a little too adventurous. Throughout her life she inspired others with her creativity and willingness to master new skills. After years of sewing and knitting she became a prolific painter. She imparted to all her love of language through books, crosswords, and Scrabble. Christine spent her later years living at Saint Mary's of Providence in Elverson. In the spring and summer she tended her beloved garden; during the long winters she dreamed of spring. She is survived by her children Ken Kelly, D. Kelly Ely, and Sophia Kelly Shultz; grandchildren Jessica, Jaclyn and Emily, as well as her sister Lynne Koppenhoefer and brothers Gerry and Eddie Payton. A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 14 at Tel Hai Retirement Community, Honey Brook. To send the family online condolences visit us at www.groffeckenroth.com. - See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/dailylocal/obituary.aspx?n=christine-jane-kelly&pid=173452830#sthash.lIT43eQ3.dpuf