Aretha (Kelley) McKinney

Aretha Kelly McKinney was born on December 17, 1967, in Goodwater, Alabama, to the loving parents of the late Lorinza Kelly, Sr. and Rose Kelly. She departed this walk of life on December 5, 2025, under the compassionate care of Coosa Valley Medical Center in Sylacauga, Alabama. She fought a courageous battle with ALS, which she faced with remarkable strength and grace since 2016.

Affectionately known as “ReeRee,” Aretha accepted Christ as her Lord and Savior at an early age and united with Pleasant Home Baptist Church in Goodwater, Alabama. Later in life, she continued her walk of faith as a devoted member of St. John Missionary Baptist Church in Sylacauga, Alabama.

Aretha received her education in the Coosa County School System and attended Goodwater High School.

Along her life’s journey, Aretha met and united in Holy Matrimony with Mr. Oren McKinney on July 2, 1994. Together they built a home rooted in love, support, and unwavering dedication to one another.

Aretha was a committed and hardworking individual. She was employed with Russell Mills from 1988 to 2000 and later with Blue Bell Creameries from 2000 to 2018. Beyond her work, she found joy in couponing, cooking, and supporting her children, grandchildren, and extended family. Her kindness, warmth, and quiet strength touched everyone blessed to know her.

She was preceded in death by her father, Lorinza Kelly, Sr.; her maternal grandparents, Joseph A. and Viola Wilson; and her paternal grandparents, Primus and Lillie Mae Kelly.

She leaves to cherish her precious memories: her devoted husband of 31 years, Oren McKinney; her loving daughters, Ferika (Joski) Smoot and Cymone (Eric) Williamson; her God-daughter, Tanaiya Crayton; her beloved mother, Rose Kelly; sisters, Francine Parker and Paulette (JD) Robinson; brothers, Lorinza Kelly, Jr. and Nicholas Chappell; sister-in-love, Raelitra McKinney; brother-in-love, Terrance (Yumeka) McKinney; her treasured grandchildren, Harmony Williamson, Rylee Smoot, and Serenity Williamson; and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Aretha’s steadfast faith, loving spirit, and unwavering devotion to her family will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew her. Her life was a blessing, her memory a treasure, and her love will continue to guide those she leaves behind.

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