Kelly Jayne Doran

Kelly Jayne Doran, born in Cincinnati, Ohio, to Patricia and Robert Doran, was raised in the Rochester area alongside her two brothers, Patrick and Scott, and her sister, Kim. Kelly often shared stories of a childhood filled with joy, frequently centering around her love for the beach—a passion she credited to her mother. Family vacations to the Jersey Shore were among her favorite memories, where she enjoyed riding bikes on the boardwalk, days in the sand, and watching her father body-surf. In her teenage years, Kelly and her friends would embark on long bike rides just for brief visits to Charlotte Beach.

Kelly attended Cardinal Mooney High School, where her vibrant personality earned her many friends. She was also proud of her time at the University of Dayton, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Communications. While she jokingly admitted she wasn’t a straight-A student, she often said, “C is for college.” However, she excelled in adventure, and her college years helped shape the spirited and remarkable woman she became.

Kelly began her career as a flight attendant for Delta Airlines, a role she held for 18 years. She traveled extensively, sharing stories of trips to the Cayman Islands with her son, Joe, vacations to Hawaii with her mother, and shopping adventures in global black markets. Later, Kelly transitioned to a career in automation equipment manufacturing. Her charm, determination, and ability to master technical details enabled her to excel in sales, often opening doors others could not.

Kelly’s son, Joe, was her greatest pride and purpose. As a single mother, she faced challenges but embraced them with resilience, supported by a network of family and friends, particularly the parents of her close friend, Grandma Marie and Grandpa Mike. Kelly’s devotion to Joe was unwavering. She cherished their daily phone calls, celebrated his milestones, and embraced the role of grandmother to “Joe Bear,” delighting in being called “Glam-ma.”

Kelly’s love for family extended beyond her immediate circle. When she met her partner, Brett, she embraced the challenges of his blended family, transforming their lives into a cohesive and loving tribe. Brett’s daughter, Anna, described her as “the missing puzzle piece.”

Kelly was fearless and determined, qualities that defined her spirit. Whether completing the grueling “Tough Mudder” or confidently approaching a celebrity for a photo, she pursued her goals with unwavering confidence. She valued simple pleasures—freshly made beds, sunrises, and beach days. Her love for the beach was unparalleled, and she introduced her loved ones to its magic, whether through boogie boarding, surfing, or exploring destinations like Costa Rica and the Florida Keys.

Kelly had a deep appreciation for life’s joys, from good food—cheddar cheese, lobster rolls, and ice cream—to her fondness for animals, particularly those she could feed with a bottle. She also recognized the importance of relationships, going out of her way to celebrate others with thoughtful gifts, cards, and her unforgettable rendition of the birthday song.

Kelly lived with a profound understanding of life’s brevity. She embraced every moment, often saying, “OK, where next?” Her adventures, big and small, created lasting memories for everyone around her. Kelly’s vibrant spirit, fearless love, and boundless energy enriched countless lives. She was, and always will be, unforgettable—a light that burned brightly and beautifully. To know Kelly was to be loved by her, and her loss will be deeply felt.