Wanda Lee (Trimble) Kelsey

Wanda Lee (Trimble) Kelsey, age 84, of Hazel Green, Kentucky, passed away on June 11, 2026, at St. Claire/UK Hospital in Morehead, Kentucky.

Born on October 2, 1941, in Pomeroyton, Kentucky, Wanda was the daughter of the late James Stanley Trimble and Dora Lee (Benton) Trimble.

In May 1959, Wanda married John Thomas Kelsey of Amelia, Ohio. Although their marriage later ended in divorce in 1974, they were blessed with four children: Carl Wayne Kelsey of West Liberty, Kentucky; John Scott Kelsey of Morehead, Kentucky; Cinda Lee Menshouse of Hamersville, Ohio; and Patricia Marie Perkins of Hazel Green, Kentucky.

Following her divorce in 1974, Wanda returned home to Kentucky and devoted herself to raising her children. She spent her entire working career in the restaurant industry, working countless long hours as a waitress to provide for her family. Known for her strong work ethic, determination, and resilience, Wanda never shied away from hard work.

In 1993, she fulfilled a dream of owning her own restaurant when she opened Wanda's Place. Though the business brought many challenges and demanded even longer hours, she persevered and continued operating the restaurant until the building was removed for new development. Even after closing the restaurant, Wanda continued doing what she knew best—serving others as a waitress—until her retirement in 2003.

Wanda was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. She especially loved spending time with her family and looked forward to family gatherings, particularly Christmas, which brought her great joy. She also loved reading a good book, working word search puzzles, watching television, especially reruns of Blue Bloods, and the Waltons spending hours on the telephone visiting with friends and loved ones. Her conversations and friendships were a treasured part of her life.

She leaves behind twelve grandchildren: Candice Ratliff, Emily Fraley, Noah Kelsey, Lora Mullins, Robert Kelsey, Angela Dixon, Krystal Stivers, Amanda Frank, James Menshouse Jr., Michael Menshouse, Adam Perkins, and Allison Kidd. She was also blessed with seventeen great-grandchildren, along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will cherish her memory.

Wanda is also survived by her daughter-in-law, Devona Kelsey; her son-in-law, Alan Perkins; her sister, Helen Barger of Mt. Orab, Ohio; and her brother, Joe Trimble of Wellington, Kentucky.

In addition to her parents, Wanda was preceded in death by her daughter-in-law, Teresa Kelsey, her son-in-law, James Menshouse, brother-in-law, Clifton Butch Barger, and infant brother, James Larry Trimble.

Wanda's life was one of perseverance, sacrifice, and unwavering devotion to her family. Through years of hard work and determination, she provided for those she loved and left an example of strength that will not be forgotten. She will be remembered for her kindness, her willingness to help others, and the countless lives she touched throughout her years of serving her community.

Though she will be deeply missed, her legacy lives on through her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Forever loved, forever remembered. 

Funeral Service 1 p.m., Monday, June 15, 2026 at the Potter Funeral Home with Bro. Noah Kelsey officiating.  Burial to follow in the Ezel Cemetery, Ezel, KY.  Visitation from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m., Monday, June 15, 2026 at the funeral home.

Pallbearers:  Robert Kelsey, Adam Perkins, Michael Menshouse, Brian Kidd, Josh Ratliff, Ethan Frank, Taylor Fraley, and Alan Perkins.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Wanda Lee (Trimble) Kelsey, please visit our floral store.