Kelly Ann Stephenson, age 56, passed away on January 28, 2026. She was born on August 6, 1969, and lived a life defined by courage, devotion, and unwavering love for her family and those entrusted to her care.

Kelly was known for her feisty spirit, bravery, strength, and resilience. She possessed a sharp wit and a sense of humor that endured even during life’s darkest moments. Fiercely devoted, she sacrificed endlessly for her children and grandbaby, always speaking her mind and standing firm in her convictions. Kelly had a special gift for making holidays and milestones memorable, pouring her heart into every occasion. She was loving, deeply caring, and loyal to those she loved.

She was a graduate of Trinity Heights High School, where she participated in cheer and dance, and later earned her college degree from Northeast Louisiana University (now the University of Louisiana at Monroe). Kelly devoted more than 30 years of her professional life as a speech pathologist. Her work was far more than a career—it was a calling. For many patients who had no one else, Kelly was there, offering not only her expertise but her presence, companionship, and compassion.

In her personal life, Kelly cherished time spent with her family. She loved attending concerts, especially country concerts with her daughter, shopping, and spoiling her children and grandbaby. Though she enjoyed outings, she was also a homebody at heart. By her side through it all was her loving companion, Ava, her faithful black Labrador.

Kelly was preceded in death by her brother, Kyle Kilpatrick; her paternal grandparents, Raymond and Louise Kilpatrick; her maternal grandparents, Henry and Marie Strother; her uncles, Hank, Barry, and Steve Strother; her aunt, Karen Chapman; and her grandbaby, Baby B.

She is survived by her daughter, Madeline Gardner and husband Landon; her cherished grandbaby, Bowen Gardner; her son, Dylan Stephenson; her parents, David and Sandy Kilpatrick; her aunt, Kathy Scott; her uncle, Jim Strother and wife Linda; along with numerous cousins and extended family who will miss her dearly.

Kelly Ann Stephenson leaves behind a legacy of strength, selflessness, and love—a life that made a lasting difference in the hearts of her family, friends, and the many lives she touched.Visitation will be held from 1-2pm Monday, February 2, 2026, at Freedom Church in Bossier City. A funeral service will follow at 2pm.