Greta Kelly Stovall's Obituary
Greta Kelly Stovall, age 86, departed this life on June 8, 2023, surrounded by her family. She was a native of Lexington, Kentucky but lived for many years in Alexandria, Virginia before retiring to Virginia Beach, Virginia, Daytona Beach Shores, Florida, and recently, Annapolis, Maryland.
She was born December 10, 1936, one of seven children of Leo and Lucille Kelly. She attended Henry Clay High School and the University of Kentucky, where she met her husband, John G. Stovall. Their lifelong union, seen by their family as the gold standard of devoted partnership, officially began September 7, 1958. They brought up their two daughters in Lexington and then Alexandria, where Greta worked as a legislative assistant in the U.S. House of Representatives. An adventurous traveler, Greta explored much of the world with John. She was also a keen gardener and a skilled flower arranger, and served as president of the Beverly Hills Garden Club. Her innate graciousness and sense of style made her the consummate hostess, and she especially enjoyed creating memorable meals and experiences for her family. Everything she touched became brighter, more beautiful, and more fun. She was preceded in death by her parents and siblings Joan Wilcox, Fred Kelly, and Harold Kelly. Her sisters Dawn Willard and Amy Nutt and her brother Charles Kelly survive her. Left to cherish her memory is her husband of 64 years, John G. Stovall, along with their daughters Laura Cassidy (Ed) and Diane Mandracchia. Six beloved grandchildren treasure their time with her and mourn its brevity: Madeline, Amanda, and Meredith Poe; and Olivia, Noah, and Vincent Mandracchia. A large extended family and community of friends will miss the sound of her laughter and the warmth of her presence. A Memorial service is planned for Saturday, July 15 at 11:00 am at The Old Presbyterian Meeting House in Alexandria, VA; internment will be at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.
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