Thelma Lee Kell, 96

McMinnville resident and Warren County native Thelma Lee Kell, 96, was born Dec. 2, 1929 and died July 22, 2026 at Willow Branch Health and Rehabilitation in McMinnville following a brief illness.

A retired secretary from Dezurik Corporation and a member of Central Church of Christ, she was the daughter of the late Dexter Lee and Mary Hannah Adcock Neal. She was married on Oct. 19, 1946 to Marvin Emmett Kell, Jr. who preceded her in death on April 21, 2024. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by son, Mike Kell and sisters, Betty Jo Jordan, Charlene Smith and Melba Young.

Mrs. Kell was survived by grandchildren, Bryan (Kristen) Kell of McMinnville and Jeremy (Penny) Kell of Murfreesboro; great-grandchildren, Shelbi, Logan and Phoebe; great-great grandsons, Jace Watson and Trivett Watson; sister, Barbara Steele of McMinnville and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral service will be held at noon Friday, July 24, 2026 in High’s Chapel with Cody Boston and Doug Bost officiating. Burial will follow at Salem Cemetery in Warren County. Visitation will be Thursday from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. and Friday from 10 a.m. until the time of service at High’s.

Online condolences may be made at www.highfuneralhome.com.

High Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Main Street Journal

July 22, 2026