Roberta Kelly

Roberta Johnston Kelly, 87, of Independence, MO passed away peacefully in her sleep, Sunday, February 6, 2011, after an 18-month battle with renal failure. Mrs. Kelly was born December 3, 1923 in Eagleville, MO, daughter of Charles and Etta (Eisenbarger) Evans. She graduated from North Harrison County High School. On New Year’s Day, 1942, she married Lynn Johnston, and gave birth a year later to her first daughter, Patricia, who was born while Lynn was flying combat missions in the Pacific Theatre. After the war the Johnstons had a second daughter, Jeanette. Mrs. Kelly worked for several years as a buyer for Kline’s Department Store in Kansas City, but was principally a homemaker. She had been a volunteer at North Kansas City Hospital, and was known for her generous and giving spirit. After Lynn Johnston died in 1980, Roberta married John Kelly, and the couple enjoyed traveling to Hawaii and across Europe. John Kelly passed away in 1997. Roberta’s faith was important to her. Her last ten years were spent at The Groves in Independence where she enjoyed volunteering and participating in their faith-and family-centered activities. She took great pride in her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her greatest joy in recent years was family gatherings for every occasion, especially celebrating family birthdays. Mrs. Kelly is survived by her daughter, Dr. Jeanette Okerstrom and her husband Dennis; five grandchildren Dr. Tony Aventa and wife Paula, Erik Haakon Okerstrom and wife Jennifer, Erin Symmonds and husband Shaun, Kyrie Manchion and husband Adam, and Katye Okerstrom; three great-grandchildren Elena and Alyssa Aventa, Chase Okerstrom. She was preceded in death by her daughter Patricia Aventa. Services will be 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, February 9, 2011 at The Groves Community Room, 1515 W. White Oak, Independence, MO 64050. Burial in the Masonic Cemetery, Eagleville, MO. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the Kidney Foundation or charity of your choice.