DiAnna Kelly

DiAnna Mae Arney Kelly, beloved mother, grandmother, and devoted member of the community, passed away peacefully in her home in Mountain City, TN on Sunday, April 28, 2024. She was born on May 25, 1953 in Banner Elk, NC to Marvin Maurice Arney and Mary Wanauth Arney. 

DiAnna's life was defined by her passion for sewing which she discovered at a young age. A talented seamstress, she created beautiful wedding dresses, pageant dresses, clothes, and blankets for her beloved grandchildren. Her skillful hands also crafted numerous quilts, each one a labor of love for her family. In addition to her creative talents, DiAnna was a dedicated member of her community. In the late 90s she played a vital role in placing foreign exchange students in the region, enriching the lives of both the students and the local community. She also guided children and youth towards their faith and shared her own testimony with countless individuals, spreading love and hope wherever she went. 

DiAnna will be deeply missed by her surviving children: Lee Kelly and his significant other Melissa, Tyson Kelly and his wife Rhenda, and Ashley McElyea and her husband Richard. She was a loving grandmother to Jordan Kelly, Hailey McElyea, Dylan Kelly, Makenzie Kelly, Austin McElyea, and Selena McElyea. She is also survived by brothers Marvin Arney and wife Kathy, Dean Arney wife Missy, and sister Trela Dugger and husband Joel. DiAnna leaves behind several nieces and nephews who played an important role in her learning how to be a Mamaw. She spent many summers taking them on trips and spoiling them like grandkids.  

She was preceded in death by her mother, Mary Wanauth Arney, her father, Marvin Maurice Arney, her granddaughter Samantha Kelly, and her nephew Raymond Arney. 

Those who knew DiAnna remember her as a giving, caring, passionate, and loving mother, whose presence brought light and warmth to all those around her. Her legacy of love and service will continue to live on in the hearts of those she touched. 

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, May 2, 2024 at Sugar Grove Baptist Church Cemetery. Pallbearers will be family and friends. May she rest in peace, surrounded by the love and memories she leaves behind.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to all DiAnna’s caregivers for the impact they made in her life.

At other times the family will receive friends at her home.

Condolences may be sent to the family through our website at www.mountaincityfh.com.