Kelly Lynn Harris, 64, of Lake Jackson, Texas, passed away on April 14, 2026, after a brief but fierce battle with metastatic cancer—faced with the same strength and grace that defined her life.
Born on March 5, 1962, in Santa Cruz, California, Kelly was the beloved daughter of Myrna Gay Craig (Mitchum) and the oldest of her 5 siblings. She grew up with a deep appreciation for her family and the wellbeing of her friends and neighbors, a thread that carried throughout her life. She graduated from Lee High School, in Baytown, Texas, and went on to build a life rooted in connection and generosity.
Kelly is survived by her son, Cody Harris of Lee’s Summit, Missouri; her siblings, Lulu, Toby, and Deviena Von Alvensleben; and a circle of dear friends who became chosen family. She was preceded in death by her mother and her brother, Kenny Von Alvensleben.
To know Kelly was to be cared for. She had a gift for making people feel seen, welcome, and loved—whether through a simple conversation, a thoughtful gesture, or her steady presence. She found joy in life’s small but meaningful moments: tending to her plants, caring for her beloved pets, and creating a home filled with warmth.
She will be remembered for her overwhelmingly kind heart, her sense of humor, and her unwavering generosity. The kind of person who would give her last coin and the shirt off of her back to those in need, even if it was her only clothing. When others might waver, Kelly would be one to step in and fill the need.
Family and friends were at the center of Kelly’s world, and she especially cherished holidays with her son, daily conversations with her most cherished friends, Betsy Orzak, Laurie Yates, and Danette Pratt, and creating connections with strangers who end up becoming life long friends.
A viewing will be held on Friday, April 17, from 6:00–8:00 p.m. at Stroud Funeral Home, 538 North Brazosport Blvd., Clute, Texas.
Kelly’s life was a quiet but powerful example of love in action. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew her.