Sharon Louise Kelly

Sharon Louise Schmied Kelly, 86, formerly of Brimfield, Illinois, passed away peacefully after a long illness at her home in Iowa, on August 10, 2026, with her family and her loving dog, Frankie, by her side. Born to loving parents Jesse and Louise Schmied, Sharon was the oldest of five children. She married Timothy Kelly, and they shared 54 wonderful years together before his passing in 2022. After retiring from Caterpillar, Sharon spent many years traveling with Tim to their winter home in Texas. She enjoyed many adventures, including trips to Spain and Rome, as well as numerous cruises and other travels. Sharon was always eager to learn something new and enjoyed trying her hand at many different crafts, including jewelry making, basket weaving and ceramics. She also loved planting flowers and especially enjoyed taking sister trips to shop for flowers and plants. One of Sharon’s greatest joys was the many adventures she shared with her granddaughter, Veronica. They loved spending time together shopping, doing arts and crafts, going to the movies and simply enjoying each other’s company. These special moments created memories that Veronica and the family will treasure forever. Sharon’s love for animals meant there was always a critter around the house. She had a special heart for rescuing animals and always made sure there was a beloved pet in her home. She passed that love and compassion for animals on to her children and grandchildren. Sharon is survived by her son, Chris Hemp; daughter, Kimberly Kelly; granddaughter, Veronica (Joe) Miller; great-grandchildren, Weston, Owen and Vivianne; siblings Sandra (Larry) Lane, Daniel (Lucy) Schmied, Merry Anne “Tudy” Schmied and Michael (Laura) Schmied; and many other nieces and nephews and friends who loved her dearly. She was preceded in death by her parents, Jesse and Louise Schmied; her husband, Tim; sister-in-law Lucy Schmied; a niece Carlolyn Schmied and nephews David Lane II and Doug Schmied. Sharon will be remembered for her adventurous spirit, creative heart, love of family, compassion for animals and the many special memories she created with those she loved. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished. A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, at Gary Deiters Funeral Home & Cremation Services in East Peoria, with visitation from 1:00 p.m. until the time of service. Burial will follow at Swan Lake Memory Gardens in Peoria. Memorial contributions may be made to T.A.P.S. (Tazewell Animal Protection Society) in Pekin. Online condolences may be left at www.GaryDeitersFH.com.

Sharon Louise Kelly

March 15, 1940 - August 10, 2026