The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. Psalm 23: 1
Dorothy Woody Kelly, age 95, of New Hope, entered her eternal home on November 14, 2025. Born on October 12, 1930 to Grady L. and Allie Lucille Perkins Woody, Dorothy lived a life marked by quiet strength, humility, unwavering faith, and a gentle, steady spirit. She worked hard, loved deeply, and consistently placed the needs of others above her own. Even in her final days, she thoughtfully considered the wellbeing of those around her.
Dorothy was preceded in death by her husband of nearly 73 years, John “Buddy” Kelly; her parents; her son, Robert Gary Kelly; and her brother, Joe Benny Woody. She is survived by her son, Steve (Irene) Kelly of Scottsboro; her daughter, Alicia (Allen) Brooks of Killen; her grandchildren, Allie Brooks-Jones (Austin) of Huntsville and John Allen Brooks of Florence; along with many nieces, nephews, special friends, and church family.
A resident of Madison County until moving to Lauderdale County in 2023 for assisted care, Dorothy devoted her life to faith, family, and service. She was a faithful member of the churches of Christ in New Hope and Owens Cross Roads, where she served quietly, humbly, and consistently, leaving a lasting impact through her gentle example. For many years, she served in the U.S. Army Land Combat Division, where her integrity, dependability, and dedication were widely admired.
Dorothy and Buddy enjoyed the simple joys of life over the years – playing Rook and Uno with longtime friends, traveling the United States, and line dancing at the senior center. They joined the local balance class and shared years of cherished memories around the tables at Hardee’s, where they gathered regularly with their close friends.
Dorothy will be lovingly remembered for her pecan pies, homemade cinnamon rolls, chicken casserole, and her classic white gravy. She and Buddy were dedicated Crimson Tide fans who relished witnessing the Sugar Bowl victories of 1977, 1978, 1979, and 1993. Dorothy found quiet joy and peace through the beauty of butterflies, roses, native birds, and the companionship of her special grand-dogs.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Rachel Kruspe and Dr. Zaheer Kahn for their years of compassionate and dedicated care. They also offer deep appreciation to Green Oaks Inn Assisted Living, many of the staff at MHNRC and everyone with Amedisys Hospice of Florence for their kindness, support, and attentive care during Dorothy’s final years and days.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at the Owens Cross Roads Church of Christ, with the funeral service following at 1:00 p.m., officiated by Harold Kelly and Justin Pannell. Interment will be in Bethel Cemetery. Pallbearers include Allen Brooks, John Allen Brooks, Austin Jones, Stephen Perkins, Adam Kelly, and Adam Olinger.
Dorothy’s legacy of humble service, enduring faith, and quiet love will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
