Kelly Leverne Flores

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Kelly Leverne Flores on July 29, 2024. Born on July 11, 1968, Kelly lived a life full of love, dedication, and service to others.

Kelly is survived by her beloved husband, Isidore Flores, loving daughter, Elena Louise Flores-Whitinger, and her dear son-in-law, Jesse Whitinger. Kelly was a doting grandmother to Ruth, age 2, and Ezra, age 9 months, whom she adored and supported with all her heart. She leaves behind her devoted parents, David and Adrienne Beckham; her loving siblings, Mason (Erika) Smith, Rachel (Don) Menerey, and Renee (Andrew) Desmond; and a host of cherished nieces and nephews.

Kelly's love for her family extended to her yearly planned vacations to Indian River, Michigan, where cherished memories were created. She was always there to lend a helping hand to Elena and Jesse, offering her unwavering support and love.

As a wife, Kelly was fiercely loyal and supportive of her husband, Isidore, advocating for him passionately, especially whenever she felt he was mistreated. Together, Kelly and Isidore were known for their generosity, often sacrificing their own needs to ensure that Elena had a solid foundation of love and education.

Professionally, Kelly held a Master's Degree and was the Sign Language Interpreter Program Coordinator for Oakland Community College. She worked for the college for 20 years and was instrumental in gaining accreditation for OCC's Sign Language Interpreter program. The only school in Michigan with such an accreditation and only one of five in the country. She was deeply passionate about learning and teaching, leaving a lasting impact on her students. One student fondly recalled that stepping into Kelly's classroom for the first time felt like hearing the singing of angels. Her patience, care, and dedication to her students' success were evident in every lesson she taught.

Kelly was proud of her connections within the deaf and blind community, serving on the board of the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID). She taught her students to be empathetic interpreters, genuinely caring about the feelings and needs of those they served.

In her free time, Kelly enjoyed reading and watching reality TV shows. She also had a deep affection for her cats, Mardi Gras (Ensey), Peeta, and Katniss (Nissy), who brought her great joy.

Kelly Laverne Flores will be remembered for her loving spirit, her dedication to her family and students, and her unwavering commitment to helping others. She touched many lives and will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, October 13, 2024, from 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. at the Leader Dogs for the Blind - Polk Residence Center 1039 S. Rochester Rd., Rochester Hills, MI 48037.