Kelly Lynn Major, a member of Rainy River First Nations and the Bear Clan, passed away on March 5, 2026, in Thunder Bay, Ontario, surrounded by her children and family at the age of 43.
Kelly was born on December 24, 1982, in Manitou Rapids 11, Ontario, to Marilyn Major and Darrell Perreault. She was from Manitou Rapids and later made her home in Onigaming First Nation, where she stayed close to her children and lived with her partner and best friend, Bruce Lee Kelly.
Kelly is survived by her loving children Lezayah (Dylan), Tameka, Malikye, Isabella, Niisha, Kelaysia, and Azalea. She is also survived by children she loved as her own, Justin, Ashtyn, Tianna (Kevin), and Zachary (Autumn and her cherished grandchildren Delilah and Lev, children of Lezayah).
Kelly is also survived by her siblings Pamela Major, Kevin Broadbent (Haley), Maria Schmitz (Jesse), Cynthia Plett (Lew) and Julian Jordan; and lovingly remembered by her many nieces and nephews: Jennifer, Natasha, Angela, Ciara, Hope, Carmen, Candace, Jeremy, Stuart, Collin, Carlo, Gavin, Nathaniel, Chase, Caleb, Michael, David, Alexander, Martin, and Billy.
Kelly was predeceased by her mother Marilyn Major; her grandmother Pearl Major; and the fathers of her children, Kelvin and Norman.
Kelly loved nothing more than her children and family. She enjoyed crafting, sewing, beading, drawing, and coloring, and found peace being outdoors, especially on the lake. Kelly loved fishing, camping, attending powwows with her children and grandchildren, cooking for her family, and spending time with the people she loved. She also knew how to commercial fish and fillet, something she was proud of.
Kelly will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and community, and will always be remembered for the love she had for her children and the memories she shared with those around her. Her love and presence will live on through her children, grandchildren, and the many people whose lives she touched.
A traditional wake was held on Wednesday, March 11, at 4:00 p.m. from Rainy River First Nation with traditional funeral on the following day, Thursday, March 12, at 10:00 a.m.
