Audrey Smith Kelley, 79, of Dayton, passed away peacefully on Feb. 11, 2026. She was born on Aug. 20, 1946, in Morehead, Ky., to William A. Nickell and Genevia Buckner.
Audrey was a devoted Christian whose faith guided her life. She had a generous heart and a deep love for helping others, especially through her crafting. She lovingly knitted beanie hats for the homeless, sharing warmth and kindness with those in need. Audrey also cherished time spent at the beach, where she found peace and joy.
Throughout her life, Audrey worked in retail and served as a manager in various locations, where she was known for her strong work ethic and leadership. She was a resident of Woodville, Texas and a former resident of Dayton, Texas for 20 years.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Dudley Kelley; her former husband, Joe Smith; and her sister, Fredia Rowland.
Audrey leaves behind a loving family who will cherish her memory: her sons, William Bradley and wife Ellen, and Ricky Bradley and wife Kathy; her daughter, Michelle McElhaney and husband James. She was a proud grandmother to Kristin Warren and husband Nate, Stephanie King and husband David, Rachel Bradley, Katie Lilly and husband Jacob, Genevia Bradley, Justin McElhaney and wife Sara, Michael McElhaney, and Kortni McElhaney. She is also survived by numerous great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and many dear friends.
A visitation will be held on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Pace Stancil Funeral Home in Dayton. A funeral service will follow at 12 p.m. Interment will be held afterward at Magnolia Cemetery in Dayton.
Audrey’s kindness, creativity, and unwavering love for her family will be deeply missed and forever remembered.