Annette Evelyn Kelley Elza, 83, peacefully passed away of natural causes Tuesday, May 7, 2024, in Champion, Ohio.
Born May 2, 1941, in Clover Lick, she was a daughter of the late Eugene Kelley and Anna Clark Kelley.
Annette’s educational journey concluded with her graduation from Marlinton High School and the Lewis Wineberger Hill School of Cosmetology. She opened and operated her own hair salon in West Farmington, Ohio, where she not only styled hair but also nurtured friendships and community ties.
Annette found solace in painting ceramics. She was an avid gardener and preserver of canned goods, alongside her husband who shared in that passion – which led to many adventurous dinners. She was always ready to cook a hearty meal to share with friends and family. When all the work was done, she would read and read late into the night. Her list of books was endless. Most of all, Annette loved babies, embracing each little one.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Roy Lee Elza; siblings, Bernell Kelley, Lorne (Leti) Kelley, James Kelley, Walter Kelley, Robert (Ellen) Kelley, Eddie Kelley, Ted (Donna) Kelley, Arlie Kelley, Rhoda Fertig and Martha Smith.
She is survived by her sister, Ruth Saunders, of Wickliffe Ohio; son, Roy E. Elza (Justine), of Ohio, and Angela Newton (Randy), of Texas. She was a proud grandmother to eight grandchildren: Ashley Elza, Ryan Elza (Faith), Leanna Stewart (David), Brittany Sullivan, Kayla Cartwright (Britt), Karragen Dias (Jeremy), Brad Newton (Letha), and Dakota Newton, and 20 great-grandchildren.
Annette will be deeply missed, but her memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, June 1, 2024, at noon at Southington Baptist Church 4395 State Route 534, Southington, Ohio 44470.
