Fearless, loving, non-judgmental
Rae Ann was kind, funny, beautiful and a fashionista! She liked design and décor and was an excellent organizer. She could also be strong and fierce. Rae Ann loved various kinds of music and could often be seen dancing and singing. She enjoyed hearing and telling funny stories, writing her thoughts in her journal, and reading inspirational books.
Rae Ann’s mother, Alisha, stated, “Rae Ann was the most non-judgmental person. She had friends from all walks of life that she loved and cared for. She never wanted to leave anyone out.”
Alisha remembers a trip to Panama City Beach when Rae Ann was eight. The water was clear and calm. Rae Ann, her dad, and brother, Aaron, paddled on floats to a sandbar. The water, barely covering the sand, made them all look like they were dancing on the surface of the water. They played happily together for a long time. That magical memory is etched in Alisha’s mind.
As they were growing up, Rae Ann and Aaron spent time together and with shared friends. Rae Ann always loved children, so spending time with her other siblings, Austin, Justin, and Carlee, who were much younger, was also fun for her. Rae Ann left behind five children of her own; Jordan, 21, Victoria, 18, Jacob, 15, Joshua 13, and Bella, four. Unfortunately, her addiction got in the way of having stable, healthy relationships with those who loved her. Rae Ann was not raising her children at the time of her death, but she was strong, and never gave up hope of reuniting with them.
Rae Ann’s disease often caused her reactions and expectations to be inappropriate. Though her mother loved Rae Ann dearly, she had to make sure the children stayed safe. “The betrayal of trust and the emotional toll on the family was horrible,” her mom said. “After Rae Ann’s death, that was followed by unbearable grief and guilt.”
“She needed our help,” Alisha commented, “but it is hard to help someone who becomes aggressive and oftentimes physically violent. I had to choose between her innocent children and Rae Ann. None of us felt there was a ‘right’ choice. The negative impact of Rae Ann’s disease never outweighed our love for her. We continue to love her dearly.”
Rae Ann’s mother, Alisha Kelley, provided the information for this narrative.
August 18, 1980-June 12, 2021-Age 41
Portrait Artist: Jason Irwin
Narrative Writer: Barbara Francois
