Kelly Rae Nelson

Kelly Rae Nelson, 57, passed away at home on September 11, 2025, after months of suffering from a heart attack and two strokes.

She was born in Ashtabula on February 23, 1968, and was a lifelong area resident.

A 1986 graduate of Ashtabula High School, Kelly was active in basketball and softball. She was a caring person with a kind soul, always willing to help anyone in need. She loved her family and friends and was an animal lover.

Kelly is survived by her loving son, Zachary, who took great care of her during her illnesses. She is also survived by her parents, Joyce and Ron Shelestak, and Dean and Nancy Orth. Her blended family also includes her stepsister Erica (Chris) Barnett and family, and Ronnie (Becky) Shelestak and family.

She was preceded in death by her brother, Eric D. Orth, in 2020.

A private family service will be held at Czup Funeral Home, 1329 Lake Ave., Ashtabula. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Kelly’s name may be made to the Ashtabula County Animal Protective League, 5970 Green Rd., Ashtabula, OH 44004, or to a charity of choice.

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