Floretha (Taylor) Kelly-Corley

Mother Floretha Kelly-Corley made her departure from this life on the morning of May 26, 2023 at her home. Floretha Taylor Kelly-Corley, known affectionately as  “Flo” was a beacon of light and love to all who had the pleasure of knowing her. She was born on June 19, 1938, in Bunn, Arkansas to the late George and Laura Mae Taylor.

She was raised in Arkansas; Floretha was baptized at an early age and carried her strong faith with her throughout her life. After graduating high school, she moved to Chicago, Illinois, to attend college and  further her education.

Floretha was generous, faith-filled, and selfless woman whose impact on those she encountered will never be forgotten.

Floretha's work history and association involvement were vast and impressive. She was active member of Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church, where she wore many hats, it was there that she began her lifelong dedication to service and helping others. She was a member of Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church which her late husband, Rev. Iva Corley was the pastor.

 Floretha was also a Gospel Promoter, Foster Care Parent, Board Member of NAACP, the first African American woman President of Soars, Job Union representative, and Democrat Party Volunteer. She retired from the National Cans after working many jobs and making a difference in countless lives.

Floretha's interests were vast, but her love for her family and everyone she came in contact with was unmatched. Her generosity and selflessness left an indelible impact on the lives of all who had the honor of knowing her. In the words of the beloved hymn by Fanny J. Crosby, "Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine! Oh, what a foretaste of glory divine!" Floretha's life was a testament to the love, grace, and mercy of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

She later married Pastor Iva Corley whom she loved and was with him until his earthly assignment was completed. Floretha made her departure from this life on the morning of May 26, 2023, much to our regret. She was preceded in death by three sisters, Ocile Taylor, Georgia Taylor and Verlene Taylor; five brothers, Thomas Taylor, Marshal Taylor, Odell Taylor, Donnie Taylor and Horace Taylor.

Floretha's love for her family and friends was immeasurable. She leaves to cherish her fond memories two sons, Bobby Kirk (Torri) Kelly of LaPorte, Indiana, and Curtis D. Kelly of Michigan City, Indiana; special nephew that she raised as her very own, Odell Taylor; stepchildren, Barry (Felice) Kelly, Dwight Wilborn, Sheila Pearson, Iva Corley Jr., Dennis Corley, Anthony (Denise) Corley, Vanette (Tim) Alexander, Phillip Corley, Peter (Yolanda) Corley, Belinda (Miles) Lee, and Marty Corley; five sisters, Evelyne McClendom, Mary Taylor, Pauline Crump all of Fordyce, Arkansas, Artie J. Taylor, Althia L. Allen of Las Vegas, Nevada; one brother, George Taylor Jr. of Fayetteville, North Carolina; six grandchildren, Ashley, Oshe, Jo’Baar, Pepsie, Dequavion, and Myles; nine great-grandchildren; special cousin, Lavern Sanders; two special friends, Cora Cambridge and Johnnie Jackson; three daughters-in-law, Bessinea “Diane”, Keisha, and Bridgette, and a host of godchildren, nieces, nephews, friends, and her Macedonia Family.

Viewing will be 4:00pm to 7:00pm, Friday, June 9, 2023 at Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church 3007 Ohio Street, Michigan City. Celebration of Life will be 11:00am Saturday, June 10, 2023 at Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church 123 Helen Street, Michigan City.

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