Lydia M. Kelly

Lydia Mae Kelly was the oldest of five children, born to the union of Matthew E. Levi and Ceolia McGee, on June 13, 1937, in New Orleans, Louisiana. After a very long battle of sickness, Lydia departed this life on Sunday, October 5, 2025, at a rehabilitation center in Lee’s Summit, Missouri. Both of her parents, brother Matthew Levi Jr. of Baton Rouge, Louisiana and a sister, Hattie Levi of Baton Rouge, Louisiana preceded her in death.

Lydia received her formal education in the Baton Rouge School District, graduating with honors from Capitol Senior High School and later attending Southern University, graduating with honors and receiving her bachelor's degree in Sociology. Lydia's journey progressed when she moved to Kansas City in 1961, where she was employed with the state of Missouri, at the Division of Family Services in 1962, doing what she loved, social work, helping and counseling people. While working at DFS as a social worker, she obtained her master’s degree in science social work, moving her career into the position of lead supervisor for the Division of Family Services, a title that she held until she retired in 1996.

At an early age in her life, Lydia was baptized and received Jesus Christ as her personal Lord and Savior. From then on Lydia continued her Christian faith attending several churches within the community, until she found her forever home on this earth with New Life in Christ Christian Fellowship, now Known as New Life In Christ International Ministries, under the wise leadership and direction of Apostle Keith and Pastor Lisa Wesley of whom she loved ever so dearly. Lydia Kelly was one of the founding members of this church. She was a dependable, dedicated, loyal, well educated, wise and knowledgeable member of the New Life family. Whatever her hands were assigned to do, Lydia completed these tasks with a smile and great joy.

Lydia M. Kelly was a majestic woman of deep faith, wisdom, and grace whose life reflected the goodness of the Lord she so often spoke about. A true matriarch. She was devoted to her family and found great joy in preparing meals, and opening her home to loved ones and friends. Known for her eloquence, class, and gentle spirit, Lydia carried herself with purpose, poise, grace and humility, always offering a kind word, a warm smile, and a touch of humor. A God-fearing woman and powerful prayer warrior, she lived the very life she taught and preached about—one rooted and grounded in faith, generosity, and service. Teaching was her passion, and she poured her heart into sharing knowledge and encouragement with others. Her prayer life was strong, her wisdom profound, and her giving nature unending. Lydia faithfully served her church and community through several organizations, including Titus II, (church mother ministry), the education ministry, the finance committee, Trophies of Grace Ministries, Helping Hands, Seasoned Seniors, and the neighborhood watch associations among many others. A wise steward over all that God entrusted to her, she leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, and integrity that will continue to inspire generations to come.

Lydia leaves behind to cherish precious memories, two sisters: Ethel M. Levi of Kansa City, MO, and Beverly J. Levi of Baton Rouge, Louisiana; a sister-in-law, Barbara Levi of Baton Rouge, Louisiana; two nieces: Jaela Hubbard, and Loria Hubbard (Frank Hubbard Jr.); six nephews: Kenneth and Curtis Levi, twins Caleb and Chandler (Michelle Levi) of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and Javien Hubbard (Brianna Hubbard & baby boy Hubbard on the way soon), and a whole host of family, cousins and friends.