Kelly Aurora Malay

Kelly Aurora Malay, beloved wife, mother, daughter, sister, teacher, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 5, 2025, in Dallas, Texas, after a courageous and lengthy battle with cancer. She was 54 years old.

Born on August 13, 1970, in Manchester, Connecticut, Kelly was the cherished daughter of Roger and Sandra Knowles. She grew up with her siblings Keith, Kevin, Barbra, and Paul, surrounded by love and a deep sense of family, which she carried with her throughout her life.

Kelly earned her bachelor’s degree from Lake Erie College and was just three credits shy of completing her master’s degree—a testament to her lifelong commitment to learning and growth. She dedicated her professional life to teaching, serving as a first-grade teacher who touched the lives of countless students with her warmth, patience, and kindness.

She married the love of her life, Chris Malay, on January 1st of 2000 and together they built a beautiful life in Arlington, Texas. As a mother, Kelly poured her heart into raising her two children, Alex and Tabitha, offering them unconditional love, guidance, and endless encouragement. Her children were the light of her life, and she never ceased to be proud of them.

Those who knew Kelly will remember her as a woman of gentle strength and grace. She had a sharp wit and dry, sarcastic humor that brought laughter to many, and her beautiful blue eyes sparkled with intelligence and compassion. She adored animals and always had a place in her heart—and often her home—for the four-legged companions she loved so deeply.

Kelly’s life will be celebrated on Saturday, May 24th, beginning at 10:00 AM at First Methodist Mansfield. Friends, family, colleagues, and former students are welcome to attend and honor the memory of a woman who gave so much of herself to others.

She is survived by her husband, Chris Malay; her children, Alex and Tabitha Malay; her parents, Roger and Sandra Knowles; and her siblings, Keith, Kevin, Barbra, and Paul.

Kelly Aurora Malay’s legacy of love, learning, and laughter lives on in the hearts of all who had the privilege to know her.