Kelli Jean Fowle (Gilliand)

In Loving Memory of Kelli Jean Fowle (Gilliand)

Kelli Jean Fowle (Gilliand) was born on June 23, 1986, to Gary A. Gilliand and Pamela Marie Gilliand (Watts). From the very beginning, Kelli was known for her vibrant personality, determination, and compassionate heart. She is also survived by her brother, Gary D. Gilliand (Jessica), with whom she shared a caring and supportive relationship throughout her life.

Above all else, Kelli's greatest joy and proudest accomplishment was being a mother. She leaves behind her five beloved children: Hannah Gilliand (18), Alexzandria Fowle (9), Ava Betty-Lynn Fowle (8), Zaine Marcus Fowle (4), and Zachariah David Fowle (2). Her children were the center of her life, and everything she did was motivated by the love she had for them.

One of Kelli's proudest moments as a mother was watching her oldest daughter, Hannah, begin her college journey at Hartwick College. She was incredibly proud of Hannah's accomplishments and the young woman she had become. Although Kelli will not be here to celebrate every milestone ahead, the love, encouragement, and pride she instilled in Hannah, and all of her children, will remain with her always.

Kelli was preceded in death by her beloved Granny, Jeanine Watts; her Grandpa, Clyde T. Gilliand; her Papa, Ralph Watts; her grandmother, Betty Campbell; her uncles, Thomas Gilliand, William Watts, and Darren Watts; and her aunt, Kara Watts. Though she deeply missed those who had gone before her, she carried their love and memories with her throughout her life.

She was also a devoted and loving aunt to her three nieces, Alyssa, Abigail, and Emma, whom she absolutely adored. Her nieces brought her immense joy, and she treasured every opportunity to spend time with them.

Kelli was blessed with a lifelong best friend in Kristy Sparks-Jakubiac. Their friendship was one of unwavering loyalty, love, and support. Together they shared countless memories, celebrated life's joys, faced its challenges, and would do anything for one another and for their children. Their bond was truly one of a kind.

Those who knew Kelli remember her as energetic, highly intelligent, fiercely determined, and incredibly loving. She never hesitated to speak her mind and was passionate in conversations about politics, religion, current events, and especially her family. She was proud and stood firmly by her beliefs while always bringing energy and conviction into every discussion.

Athletics played an important role in Kelli's life from an early age. She began bowling in elementary school and continued to enjoy the sport throughout her life. During junior high she discovered her passion for running by joining the cross-country and track teams. That passion continued throughout high school, where she earned varsity honors as a freshman in both sports. Her dedication and talent led her to achieve All-State recognition in both cross-country and track. Running was more than a sport to Kelli—it was a passion that reflected her perseverance, determination, and competitive spirit.

Kelli possessed an incredible work ethic and worked hard throughout her life. Of all the jobs she held, one of her favorites was bartending at Comerica Park. She loved meeting new people and had an extraordinary ability to make others feel welcome. It seemed that within just a few minutes of meeting someone, Kelli had made a new friend. Her warm smile, outgoing personality, and genuine interest in others left lasting impressions on everyone she encountered.

Faith was an important part of Kelli's life. At approximately eight years old, she was baptized at First Baptist Church of Wyandotte, where she accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior. Her faith remained a source of strength throughout her life, especially during her courageous battle with cancer. Even in her final days, she held firmly to her faith and found comfort in God's promises.

Kelli and her brother, Gary, shared many special memories over the years. One that remained especially meaningful was the trip she took during her senior year of high school to visit him in Alaska while he was serving in the United States Air Force. Spending that time together gave them the opportunity to get to know one another better and strengthened the bond they shared as brother and sister.

Kelli's life was defined by love—for her children, her family, her friends, and her faith. She faced life's challenges with courage, determination, and remarkable strength while continuing to put others before herself. Her kindness, laughter, intelligence, and unwavering devotion to those she loved will forever remain in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.

Though her time on earth was far too short, Kelli's legacy lives on through her children, her family, and the countless lives she touched with her generous heart and unforgettable spirit.

Rest in heavenly peace, our beloved Kelli Jean. You will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.