Diann Russell Jennings-Kelley went to meet her Savior on July 14, 2026, after a brief battle with cancer. Though her earthly life came to an end, her faith in Jesus Christ assured her of the eternal life she now enjoys in His presence. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, teacher, coach, and faithful follower of Christ whose life touched countless people.
Diann was born in Oxford, Mississippi, to the late James Vardaman Russell and Beulah Saunders Russell and was raised in Sardis, Mississippi. Although she was born deaf, she never allowed deafness to define or limit her life. She excelled both academically and athletically, graduating as valedictorian of the Mississippi School for the Deaf. She then attended Gallaudet University in Washington, D.C., where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Home Economics, served as captain of the women’s basketball team, competed in volleyball and field hockey, and discovered a love for acting and the performing arts.
Following graduation, Diann devoted more than 30 years to the Mississippi School for the Deaf, where she taught Home Economics and Mathematics while coaching basketball. She considered teaching more than a profession—it was her calling. She believed deeply in her students and poured her heart into helping generations of young people learn, grow, and believe in themselves.
Family was the greatest joy of Diann’s life. She was blessed to share more than twenty wonderful years with her beloved husband, Jimmy Kelley. Together they enjoyed a life filled with love, laughter, and adventure. They traveled throughout the United States and around the world, creating treasured memories everywhere they went. Nothing brought her greater happiness than spending time with her children and grandchildren.
Diann found joy in life’s simple blessings. She loved sewing, gardening, and filling her yard with beautiful flowers. She was known for making delicious homemade jellies and jams that she delighted in sharing with family and friends. Above all else, she loved her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Her faith guided every aspect of her life and gave her unwavering hope, strength, and peace.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jimmy Kelley; her parents, James Vardaman Russell and Beulah Saunders Russell; her brothers, James, Joe, and Jimmy Russell; and her grandson, Benjamin.
She is survived by her sons, Russ Jennings (Brandy) and Kevin Jennings; her grandchildren, Damon Jennings (Mercedes), Taylor Jennings, Eli Jennings, Emma Jennings, and Connor Jennings; her great-grandson, Waylon; along with many extended family members, dear friends, former students, and colleagues whose lives were forever enriched by knowing her.
Diann’s life was a testimony to perseverance, grace, and faith. She overcame obstacles with courage, served others with humility, loved deeply, and lived with joy. Though we grieve her absence, we rejoice in the assurance that she is now whole, healed, and at peace in the presence of her Savior. Her memory will continue to bloom in the hearts of all who loved her, and her legacy of faith, determination, and unconditional love will endure for generations to come.
A memorial service celebrating Diann’s life will be held on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at Memphis Deaf Church. Visitation with the family will begin at 1:00 p.m., followed by the memorial service at 2:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to Memphis Deaf Church, a ministry that was dear to Mom’s heart.
