Marlene (Sandefur) Kelly

Marlene Sandefur Kelly, 84, of Indianapolis, passed away June 20, 2023. She was born June 2, 1939 in Connersville, daughter of Fred and Hilda Lewis Sandefur.

Marlene grew up in Carthage and was a 1957 graduate of Carthage High School. She loved being a part of the high school marching band, where she played the clarinet and had fond memories of marching in the Indianapolis 500. Marlene was known for her ability to type very fast and could hula hoop like no other. Marlene then attended Ball State University for a time.

In 1963 Marlene married Michael E. Kelly. They began their early years in Indianapolis where they raised two children before moving to Zionsville in 1978. They went their separate ways in 1983; however, continued to be committed parents. Marlene was a gifted seamstress as well as cross stitching. She sewed many of her children’s outfits, also sewed many difficult pieces such as draperies and quilts.

For more than 10 years, Marlene was employed with Grubb Ellis Harding Dahm and Company. She also worked with Fred Frish and Associates in positions of Management, Sales, and Marketing, with more than 23 years total in Commercial Real Estate.

In addition to her parents, Marlene was preceded in death by her sister, Sue York.

Survivors include her daughter, Kimberly Kelly Lerner and son, Kevin Kelly; grandsons, Ben Lerner and Robert Lerner.

A Celebration of Life for Marlene will be held at a later date.

Marlene’s final resting place will be in Park Cemetery, Greenfield.

Distinctive Cremation is privileged to assist the family with arrangements.

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