Obituary of Barbara Ann Kelley

Barbara Ann Haykus was born in Dearborn, Michigan on May 22, 1947.  She was one of six children born from the union of the late Edward Haykus and the late Ethel (Fater) Haykus.  Barbara was a 1966 graduate of Melvindale High School.

Barbara was employed at the Detroit Free Press for nine years prior to her decision to stay home and raise her children. Nurturing her family was of upmost importance.  She looked forward to traveling, many walks to get ice cream in the summer, cooking her famous cuisine Kelley’s surprise and her Christmas when the whole family was together.

Barbara was honest, funny and had a unique sense of humor. She enjoyed decorating her home with her bell collection. As an avid Detroit Tiger fan, Barbara could be found rooting on her favorite Detroit Tiger, watching Jeopardy or receiving her spiritual nourishment on CatholicTV. 

In her quiet time, she enjoyed crocheting, sewing, quilting and painting.

Barbara Ann Kelley, age 70, of Monroe passed away at 12:10pm on Monday, June19, 2017 at ProMedica Monroe Regional Hospital.  In addition to her parents, her passing was preceded by a sister: Sharon Haykus; a niece: Shari Ann Neighbors; and her ex-husband of twenty-eight years: Dwight Kelley.

To cherish her memory, she leaves seven children:  Eden (Francesca) Kelley of Dundee, Aaron (Jennifer) Kelley of Monroe, John (Jessica) Kelley of Macon, Georgia, Christian Kelley of Monroe, Graceson Kelley of Monroe, Lofton Kelley of Monroe and Aimee Kelley of Monroe; four siblings:  Pat Dewitt of Flat Rock, Jackie Haworth of Canton, Jayne Barnum of Spring Hill, Florida, and Edward “Butch” Haykus Jr. of Taylor; nieces and nephews.

Friends may gather from 2:00pm until a Celebration of Her Life at 7:00pm on Friday June 23, 2017 at Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe Street, Monroe (734)384-5185 with Father Louis Lapeyre of St. Mary’s Catholic Church officiating.

In Lieu of flowers, Memorial donations or edible arrangements are suggested to the family.  In memory of Barbara all are asked to wear Detroit Tiger shirts. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort, or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.