Funeral service will be 1:00 P.M. Wednesday, May 22, 2024, at Ephesus Seventh Day Adventist Church.  Burial will follow in Greenlawn Memorial Park.  Visitation is from 5:30-8:00 P.M. on Tuesday at the funeral home.

Mrs. Edna Smith Kelly was born on October 16, 1939, in Pender County, North Carolina, to the late David and Ruth Smith. After a fulfilling life dedicated to service and compassion, she peacefully departed on May 16, 2024, at her residence.  Edna's educational journey began at Pender County training school, where she obtained her high school diploma. Her career path evolved from being a nanny and housekeeper to pursuing further education to become a nursing assistant, a role she fulfilled with dedication in various healthcare facilities across New Hanover County.  She embraced a spirit of service that defined her existence. Throughout her life, Edna was supported by her loving husband, Leonard Kelly, who preceded her in death.  As a devout member of Ephesus Seventh Day Adventist Church, Edna actively served in various capacities, including as a Sabbath School teacher and usher. Her commitment to living out the principles of service and kindness was exemplified through her selfless acts of feeding the hungry, visiting the sick and shut-in, and providing shelter to those in need, without regard for their background. Edna's generosity extended not only to giving of herself but also in monetary support.  Beyond her church duties, Edna found joy in the simple pleasures of life, such as spending time on her porch, nurturing her garden, and engaging in meaningful conversations with her neighbors. Her life was a shining example of compassion, service, and community, leaving an indelible impact on all she encountered and inspiring others to follow in her footsteps.  She is survived by: her loving children, Ida R. Smith and Faye Walker (Ivory) of Wilmington, NC; her brother, David Smith, Jr. (Alice) and sister, Lena Smith both Burgaw, NC; four grandchildren, Eddie Smith and his wife Lacinda of Wilmington, NC, Warren W. Wilson Jr. and his wife Sherika of Waldorf, MD, Shawna Wilson and Mario Grady both of Wilmington, NC; five great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and a wide circle of nieces, nephews, other relatives, friends, and church members who also mourn her passing.