Kelena Y. Chisholm's Obituary
Kelena Yvonne Chisholm, born January 18, 1978, in Seattle, Washington, to Bobby L. Howard and Kathleen Anderson, entered eternal rest on November 26, 2025. Her passing leaves a deep ache in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who were blessed to know her.
Kelena grew up in Seattle and attended Woodrow Wilson High School, where her lively spirit and magnetic personality made her stand out. After graduating, she built a life rooted in love and family in Greensboro, North Carolina, where she lived for over 20 years. Her most precious gifts were her children, William Charles Chisholm Jr. and Tahni Charletta Chisholm, who were the heartbeat of her life and the source of her deepest joy.
A proud member of the Order of the Eastern Stars, Immaculate Chapter 537 PHA, Kelena carried herself with dignity, sisterhood, and grace. Her presence uplifted every room she entered.
Music was her constant—whether country, rock, soul, or R&B, Kelena found comfort and joy in every melody. She had a natural glow, a laugh that could shift the entire atmosphere, and a spirit so joyful and jolly that she made even the hardest days feel lighter. She didn’t stress over the small things—or even the big ones. Kelena lived with love, humor, and a calm strength that made her unforgettable.
Professionally, she poured her heart into service. She worked in corrections and later served as a housing monitor, roles that required empathy, patience, and resilience—qualities Kelena carried effortlessly. She was fair, kind, and treated every person with humanity.
Bobby Lynn Howard and Kathleen Anderson; and her siblings: Nogomo “Jojo” Robinson, Mahndesha “Sosoe” Barber, and Chris Cool Wilmer. She also leaves behind generations of nieces and nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles and God children, friends and coworkers who loved her deeply.
Her humor, her caring heart, and her radiant energy will be remembered forever. Kelena lived boldly, loved deeply, and carried joy wherever she went. Though her physical presence has departed, her laughter, her light, and her unforgettable spirit will echo through generations.
May her memory shine forever. May her love live on in all who carry her in their hearts.
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