Mary Lou Kelly

Mary Lou Kelly, age 78, of Twin Falls, Idaho, passed away peacefully on December 24, 2025, from complications related to Parkinson’s.

Mary was born on November 3, 1947, to Cornelius and Gertrude Rietveld in Illinois. In 1965, she graduated from Bloom High School in Chicago Heights, and soon after married the love of her life, James Kelly. In the early 1980’s, Mary and her family moved from their home in Indiana to begin a new life farming in Wendell, Idaho.

Mary shared a deep love of travel with her beloved husband and together they explored the world, creating memories and meeting new friends wherever they went. She had a special affection for cats, whose companionship brought her comfort and happiness throughout her life.

Mary is survived by her daughter, Jennifer (Michael) March of Twin Falls, ID; her brothers, Robert (Patricia) Rietveld of Boise, ID, and Gerrit (Jackie) Rietveld of Richmond, VA; her grandson, Jared (Kaitlyn) March of Twin Falls, ID; and her cherished great-granddaughter, Kenley March, who brought her immense joy.

Mary was preceded in death by her loving husband, James Kelly.

Mary will always be remembered for her love of cats, her love of travel, and the deep devotion she had for her family and friends. Her presence will be deeply missed, but her memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved her.

A Celebration of Life will be held later this summer. In lieu of flowers, a memorial contribution may be made in Mary’s name to the Twin Falls Animal Shelter.