August 11, 1947 - December 10, 2024
Lynda Grace Kelly, age 77, of Brodhagen passed away peacefully at the Stratford General Hospital on December 10, 2024. Born in Stratford, daughter of the late Gordon and Grace Parrott.
Predeceased by her husband Art Kelly and longtime companion Ray Gloor. Lynda is survived by her sons Dale Smith, Todd Smith (Gina), Paul Smith (Victoria Kirk). She will be sadly missed by her grandchildren Connor and Isabella.
Raised in Logan Township on her parents’ farm, Lynda was an only child and a hardworking farm girl. Spirited and ambitious, she eventually made her way to Stratford as a young mother, where she became one of the first car-hops at A&W before moving on to the Dominion grocery store.
Lynda then made local history as the first female salesperson at the Beacon Herald Newspaper, where she thrived and became a trusted advisor to Stratford merchants, helping them grow their businesses – all while raising her three boys, whom she cherished. Outgoing, kind, and a lively conversationalist, she built a strong network, forging meaningful relationships with both business contacts and throughout the community. Lynda was a valued, and trusted friend to many.
With an entrepreneurial spirit, Lynda purchased Violet Gerofsky's Ladieswear, a business befitting her meticulous sense of style and her knack for helping and connecting with people. She later renamed the store to Lynda’s Place, operating the successful business for many years until her retirement.
Lynda then relocated back to her roots in Brodhagen, where she purchased a beautiful home and added her signature, tasteful touches. Always a welcoming entertainer, she delighted in hosting friends and family, frequently organizing dinners and get-togethers where her cooking was a crowd favourite. Lynda was also highly active in the Brodhagen Community Centre, dedicating her time to organizing events and doing what she loved most – connecting with new and old friends.
Family and friends are invited to the visitation at the W.G. Young Funeral Home, 430 Huron Street, Stratford on Saturday, December 14, from 6-8 p.m. The funeral service will be held at the funeral home on Sunday at 1 p.m. Interment will be held at Knox Presbyterian Cemetery in Mitchell at a later date. Memorial donations in Lynda’s memory may be made to Rotary Hospice, Stratford. Please visit www.wgyoungfuneralhome.com
