Annette Kelley, 84, of Grinnell, IA, died at her home under the care of UnityPoint Grinnell Regional Hospice on Sunday, June 14, 2026.

A graveside service will be held at 10:00 AM, Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at Lone Tree Cemetery near Sioux Rapids, IA.

Memorials may be designated to a local animal shelter or a dementia/Alzheimer’s organization of the donor’s choice. Memories and condolences may be shared with Annette’s family online at Smith Funeral Home & Crematory.

Annette Rae Olson was born in Sioux Rapids, IA, to Carvel Harold Olson and Verneil Lois (Wright) Olson. She was raised and educated in Sioux Rapids and graduated from Sioux Rapids High School. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Buena Vista College and later received a Master’s Degree in Education from University of Iowa.

On December 23, 1966, she was united in marriage to John Roy Kelley in Sioux Rapids. Following their marriage, John was drafted into the United States Army during the Vietnam War. The couple lived in Virginia before eventually returning to Iowa.

Annette dedicated her professional life to education. She taught in the Sibley, Sioux Rapids, and Boone school districts and retired in 2000 after 32 years of teaching. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church, where she taught Sunday School. She also served as a Little League softball coach and was a member of the Fort Lee Officers Wives Auxiliary Club.

Annette enjoyed the outdoors and had a special love for trees, birds, flowers, wildlife, and fishing. She enjoyed playing gin, entertaining family and friends, cheering for the Iowa Hawkeyes football and the Minnesota Twins, and spending time with those she loved. Her greatest joy was her family, especially her grandchildren. She treasured traveling to attend their school activities and athletic events and never missed an opportunity to support them.

Annette is survived by her son, Steven (Leigh) Kelley of Cass Lake, MN; her daughter, Stephanie (Shawn) Walters of Grinnell; and her grandchildren, Tony Kelley, Jorie Walters, Jace Walters, and Aubrey Walters Gabert. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, John Kelley in 2014; and her sister, Colleen Pearson.