Deborah Kate Kelley

Deborah Kate Kelley, 72, of Rowlett, TX, returned to her heavenly father Friday, September 29th. Services will be October 28, 2023, at 1 P.M., at West Salado Cemetery.

She was born March 9th, 1951 in Bell County TX to the late Marilyn Kate and William Harris of Maryland. She graduated from Belton High School and the University of Mary-Hardin Baylor in Belton, TX. She has been a resident of Rowlett, TX for over 30 years. She retired from her devoted career as Executive Director of HR for Eastfield College and served as Associate Vice Chancellor of HR for Dallas County Community College District. 

Kate’s beautiful personality shines through her smile that lit up a room and expressed in her hearty laugh. She was an innovative thinker, inquisitive, fun, a trusted friend and ally, always ready to help others to make their lives better. After retirement, she volunteered with a non-profit for US immigration, and with her never ending passion for education, she served as a substitute teacher. A woman with strong creative force within her, she was a gifted artisan, creating beautiful scenery from her home to oil painting on canvas and photography. She had a fondness for sunshine and being outdoors enjoying nature. Her motto was, “as my grandmother would say, do it today because tomorrow is not promised”. 

Survivors include her daughter Kimberly Eads of Dallas, TX, siblings Jill Harris of Annapolis, Maryland, Edward Harris of Baltimore, Maryland, Joy Corbett of Wilmington, Delaware, William Harris of Tyler, Texas, Stanley Harris of Washington, D.C., and nieces and nephews.

Arrangements are being handled by Broecker Funeral of Salado. The family would like to extend a special thank you to her friends, Linda Williams, Luz Lopez, and Carolyn Thornton.

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