Barbara Jean Kelley, age 76, of Newark, Ohio, passed away on Monday, June 16, 2025, at Mt. Carmel East Hospital. She was born on April 13, 1949, in Long Island, New York, to the late Donald and Arlene (Totten) Scotland.

Known to many as Barb, and affectionately called "Scotty" by her late husband Patrick, Barbara was known for her attention to detail and personal style. She maintained a traditional English garden at her home, spending much of the spring and summer months tending to it with care. Inside her home, she had a distinct approach to decorating, often building detailed displays and changing them with the seasons. Barbara enjoyed spending time at the beach and always appreciated receiving a shell as a keepsake. She also valued time with her grandchildren, especially on slow afternoons filled with conversation and laughter.

She is survived by her daughter, Sarah (Kevin) Simpson; grandchildren, Jonah, Eliot, Scout, and River Simpson; her sister, Janet (Karl) Tucker; and her brother-in-law, Charlie Curtis. She was preceded in death by her husband of 45 years, Patrick Kelley, and her sister, Sue Curtis. Barbara lived on Hudson Avenue for many years and built lasting friendships with neighbors and members of the community during that time.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 19, 2025, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Brucker and Kishler Funeral Home, 985 N 21st Street, Newark, Ohio 43055.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Barbara's memory may be made to the Licking County Humane Society, 825 Thornwood Dr SE, Heath, Ohio 43056, or to Dawes Arboretum, 7770 Jacksontown Rd, Newark, Ohio 43055.