Kelly Denise Pride
With deep sadness, but also thankfulness for the 42 years she was ours, the family of Kelly Denise Pride, a lifelong Peninsula resident, announces her unexpected passing on Friday, March 22, 2024. Born in Newport News in 1981, Kelly's arrival that Thursday is still remembered as one of our family's happiest days – the first girl to be born in her generation after two older brothers and several male cousins. Outgoing, friendly and intelligent, she was a delight to raise – everything a parent could want. As a student, Kelly worked hard to excel in whatever she set her mind to accomplish, serving as president of both the Student Council Association and the Junior Honor Society, a cheerleader, and a goalie for the soccer team.
Despite her many exceptional qualities and the enduring love of her family, Kelly struggled to break free from the iron grip of addiction for much of her adult life. In the end, after more than three years of managing to avoid them, drugs took her from us much too soon.
In addition to her only child, Madison Grace – a beloved, much-wanted daughter whose arrival in 2007 was as joyously received as Kelly's own birth had been nearly 26 years before – Kelly leaves behind her parents, Dianne and Tom Pride of Williamsburg. Other survivors include her brother, Christopher Pride, and his children, Logan, Carter and Avery of Williamsburg; brother, Tom Reichert of SC and his sons, Repp and Hinton; sister-in-law, Sherrie Pride of Williamsburg; and Kelly's companion, Henry Hudson of Newport News. Kelly's pup, Cash, misses her dearly, as well.
Blessed with an outgoing personality and a dazzling smile that reflected the essence of who she really was, Kelly lived by the words “Shine bright like a diamond.” To those who knew her, please remember her that way, knowing that she is finally free of the burdens of this life. And never give up on a loved one who is fighting to overcome addiction. As hard as it is to love an addicted person, losing them is a tragedy.
Kelly's family will welcome friends from 6:00 7:30 p.m. on Friday, March 29, 2024, at Weymouth Funeral Home, 12746 Nettles Dr. in Newport News. Please dress casual.