Glenda Raye Kelly Diggs, 79, of Rockingham, entered her heavenly home on Friday, Nov. 8, 2024. Her death followed a brief illness.
She was born April 15, 1945, in Richmond County, daughter of the late Frank Jackson Kelly and Elsie Haywood Kelly.
Glenda was preceded in death by her only brother, Jack Jr., and three sisters, Pat Bynum, Lavonne Benfield and Debra Kelly Goodwin.
She is survived by her three children, Glenda Ferre Cummins (Gene), Mac Diggs (Aimee), Kerre Thomas (Chris); eight grandchildren, Haylee Cook (Johnny), Kelly Chavis (Jessica), Kasey Koehler (Kamerin), Cruz Titus (Aleigha), Mark and Matthew Thomas, and Shelby and Avery Diggs; eight great-grandchildren; and sister, Dianne (Dee) Kelly Wilson (Larry) of Queen Creek, Arizona. She is also survived by a host of nieces and nephews.
Glenda grew up on her family’s farm. She went about doing her chores with a song in her heart. She was affectionately known as “Cow-Kelly.” She had a beautiful God-given voice and a heart for all living things. In her earlier years she drove a school bus, was a teacher’s assistant, worked in retail, and in her later years returned to school. Her greatest achievement was completing nursing school (1989). She showed her love and faith in God working as a hospice nurse.
She was a member and volunteer with 4-H in Richmond County. Glenda was a lifetime member of Cartledge Creek Baptist Church. She accepted Christ as her Savior during Vacation Bible School at 8 years old. She was choir director, WMU Leader, and held many other offices in the church. She loved the flea market and all things Christmas. Her beautiful voice led her to many opportunities. In the ’60s, she was part of the 8 O’Clockers, the Satellites, The Red Stocking Revue, which took her to perform at the Ryman Auditorium.
Our mother will forever be known for the love of fellow man, regardless of skin color, socioeconomic status, lack of material possessions, and her witty sense of humor. Truly a golden heart has stopped beating.
Visitation will be Monday, Nov. 11, 2024 from noon-2 p.m. at Cartledge Creek Baptist Church, Rockingham.
The Celebration of Life service will begin, immediately following, at 2 p.m. with Pastor Jason Lutz officiating.
At other times, the family will receive friends at the family home, 193 Old Charlotte Highway, Rockingham.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you support the ministry of Keith Campbell with Global Scholars. Donations may be made online at www.Global-Scholars.org/donations/campell-keith/ or by check payable to “Global Scholars” with “In Memory of Glenda Kelly” and mailed to: Global Scholars, PO Box 12147, Overland Park, KS 66282.
Harrington Funeral Home & Crematory is serving the Diggs family.
Online condolences may be made at harringtonfuneralhome.com.
UPDATED: 6:40 p.m. 11-9-24
