Jennifer Renee Kelly

Jennifer Renee Kelly, age 44, passed away peacefully on February 26, 2026, at Washington Regional Medical Center in Fayetteville, Arkansas. She was born on October 28, 1981, in Fort Smith to Michael King and Delinda (Cagle) Montgomery.

Jennifer had a heart devoted to serving others. A woman of many talents, she generously gave her time to numerous causes close to her heart. She lovingly crocheted blankets for babies in local NICUs, volunteered with her daughter’s dance and ballet programs, and rescued and rehomed many animals over the years. Her deep compassion for animals led her to support local rescue efforts, including writing heartfelt adoption profiles to help dogs find their forever homes.

Above all, Jennifer’s greatest joy and proudest accomplishment was her daughter, Memphis. From the very beginning, Memphis’ life was a testament to faith and resilience. Though doctors once feared she might not survive birth due to a heart defect, Memphis overcame every obstacle and ultimately did not require surgery. Jennifer was her unwavering advocate and biggest cheerleader, always ready to move mountains for her child. Jennifer was in the process of converting to Catholicism and faithfully attended St. Michael's Catholic Church, where she found comfort and spiritual growth. Her faith was an important and guiding presence in her life.

Jennifer will be remembered for having a personality as big as her smile, and an even bigger heart. She was a strong and resilient woman who lived her life unfiltered and unapologetically herself. Jennifer’s caring spirit will be deeply missed, and her legacy lives on through her beloved mini-me, Memphis. 

She is survived by her devoted husband, Scott Kelly; her mom and dad, Delinda and Chris Montgomery; her cherished children, Memphis Kelly and Orion Godfrey; her sister, Brittany Roderick; her grandmother, Linda Tucker; her nieces and nephews, Scarlett and Joshua Paul Roderick; Chris and Hunter Mills; her aunt and uncle, Diane and Truman Crawford; along with many cousins, aunts, uncles, extended family members, dear friends, and her treasured pets.

Jennifer was preceded in death by her father, Michael King; her grandparents, Chris Cagle, Etta King, and Eugene King; as well as several beloved aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, March 2, 2026, at Lewis Funeral Chapel. A funeral service will take place at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, also at Lewis Funeral Chapel, with Father Rick Hobbs officiating.

In honor of Jennifer’s compassionate spirit, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to one of the organizations she passionately supported: Kitties and Kanines Shelter, Fort Smith Animal Haven, The Ehlers-Danlos Society, or Western Arkansas Ballet.

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