Mary Kate Kelly

Mary Kate (Burns) Kelly, 57, much loved partner, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away tragically on Tuesday, October 20, 2026.

Born February 7, 1969, in Camp Hill, she was the daughter of the late Richard Leroy and Katherine Joan (Sherrick) Burns and was also preceded in death by her sister: Elizabeth “Beth” Leshak.

An alumna of Bishop McDevitt High School in Harrisburg, Mary Kate was an outstanding athlete, excelling in soccer and basketball. After high school, she began her career with Jiffy Lube and spent over 27 years as the General Manager of Factory Motor Parts in Swatara Township.

As a young single mother to two boys, Mary Kate worked diligently to provide for her sons while showing them the love only a mother can. When those boys became fathers themselves, Mary Kate cherished her new role as “Nony” to her beloved grandchildren. Carrying on traditions with the youngest generation, she took them to her father’s hunting camp in Cook’s Forest often and rented cabins (almost always #13) in Moshannon State Park. For the last few years, she has spent time with her family in Ocean City, Maryland. Raised to appreciate the outdoors, Mary Kate loved tending to her yard and flowers and as a true Pennsylvanian girl, loved the winter, insisting on wearing shorts even when the temperature was freezing. In her spare time, she enjoyed watching HGTV and hosting parties, especially at Halloween!

Mostly, Mary Kate was a patient, loving, and selfless Mom and Nony, giving her time endlessly to her family and friends, and treasuring each moment with a warm smile and lighthearted wit.

Surviving is her loving partner in life and love for over 29 years: George W. Donnelly; her two sons: Jason A. Kelly (and Kayla Glick) and Justin L. Kelly (and Allysa Heckard); her siblings (and best friends): Pamela Vinson, Mark Burns, Matthew Burns (and Lisa) and Steven Burns (and Tracey); the joys of her life, her 3 precious grandchildren: Camryn, Anthony, and Dakota; her many nieces and nephews; and her beloved pup: Journey.

As an avid animal lover and protector, her family has asked that contributions in her memory be made to: T&D’s Cats of the World, 363 Mountain Road, Penns Creek, PA, 17862, an animal rescue that has helped her with various animals, becoming a yearly destination for Mary Kate and her family.

Her family is planning a Celebration of Life, and details will be shared soon to honor her beautiful spirit.

Kimmel Funeral Home, Harrisburg, is handling arrangements.