Vera Ann Brown Kelly was born December 29, 1950 to William and Josephine Brown in McKeesport, Pennsylvania. The Brown Family attended Macedonia Baptist Church in Duquesne, Pennsylvania.

Vera attended Duquesne High School and graduated in 1970. Following High School, Ms. Brown began her professional career as a support staff member at Gulf Oil Company, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. This 44-story building was the tallest in Pittsburgh until 1970.

In early 1971, Vera met Michael Kelly, and they dated for 1 ½ years before “jumping the broom” in Holy Matrimony, November 25, 1972, at Macedonia Baptist Church. In the fall of 1977, Vera, Michael, and their three-year-old son, Moise, relocated to Tempe, Arizona.

As an adult, Vera attended First New Life Missionary Baptist Church, First Institutional Baptist Church (FIBC), and Fountain of Life House of Worship (FOLHOW). She was active as an usher (in all 3 churches), Deaconess (FIBC), bookstore volunteer, and office support staff member at FOLHOW.

While in Arizona, Vera was a “professional” homemaker, devoted to raising their 3 children. In the late 1980’s, she earned a Cosmetology license and rejoined the world of work as an Executive Support Staff member at Mesa Community College (office of the President), Arizona Air National Guard (General’s office), and for NBA star Penny Hardaway Vera was also very creative as a painter, high-end gift basket designer, and doll maker (De-Vine Divas) using wine bottles.

In addition to holy service in church, Vera’s most rewarding volunteer work was the 14 years she spent as a Fiesta Bowl Ambassador. Before achieving emeritus status, Vera served as the Chairperson of that dynamic organization.

Vera was also known as a fashionista for her contemporary makeup, clothing, and hairstyles. But Vera said her best blessings were her husband and three children – Moise John Kelly, Orisha Lynn Kelly, and Vaughn Edward Kelly (Ashley).

Vera is survived by her older sister Carmen Milton, five grandchildren, Keairra, Natalia, Elon, Caitlyn, and Christian. And a myriad of nieces and nephews.

Vera asked that her home going be a celebration of her life because she loved life. Smile if you feel sad, pray if you shed a tear, and love God with all your heart as you hug somebody. Vera is not gone but graduated to our Father's house, where there are many mansions. She is not saying Goodbye, but I’ll see you later in Heaven!

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