August 23, 2025, 75, Goldsboro —
Lillie Faye Dodson Bradshaw Kelly, 75, passed away in the early morning hours of August 23, 2025, while being cared for at BellaRose Nursing and Rehab in Garner, NC. She is survived by her children and their families; Steve Dodson and his wife Linda of Clinton, and children, Sara, Matthew, Jonathan, and Leia; Lynn Clark and her husband David of Clayton, and their daughter Madelyn; Chyrl “Sisse” Matthis and her husband Chris of Minnesota, and their son Aaron (Alex and Noah); and Pamela Bradshaw of Clinton, and her daughter Joanna; two great grandchildren; and her special fur baby, Ellie. Faye is also survived by her brother, William Anthony Dodson; and several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; William Edward and Edna Mae Potter Dodson; and her husbands, Leon Sherrill Bradshaw, and Roscoe Kelly; and her siblings, Billy Ray Dodson, George “Jake” Dodson, John Edward Dodson, Jean Cashwell, Helen Cannady, and Catherine Floyd.
Faye’s greatest joys in life were her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was also known as Ma Faye to many children in her community. She never met a stranger and enjoyed cracking jokes with all that she met. Faye was well known for her cooking and was always happy to welcome family and friends to enjoy a meal that she had lovingly prepared. She enjoyed reading, word search puzzles, quilting, and cross stitching.
The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of UNC Rex Hospital 5West and BellaRose Rehab and Nursing for their compassionate care, exceptional kindness and support during their Mama’s illness.
The family will hold a Celebration of Life for their dear Mama, Nana, and Sister at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the BellaRose Rehab and Nursing Employee Fund.
Faye’s memory will live on forever in the hearts of her children.
Rev. 21:4 “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, or pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.”
