Obituary of Leann Kelly

Leann Kelly, 60, of Valatie, NY, passed away on December 21, 2023, of natural causes while enjoying her new found passion of skiing with her family. Leann was born in Troy, NY, to parents Dan and Joan Kelly on October 11, 1963. Her lifelong passion and talent for show jumping began at an early age, growing up at her family's Dan Kelly Stables in East Nassau, NY. Leann attended Averill Park High School, where she particularly excelled in mathematics. Following graduation, Leann went on to become a professional equestrian trainer and Grand Prix rider, eventually opening her own stable, Winslow. She was happiest on horseback in her own field at home, and spent every spare moment of her time tending to the details of her beloved farm. Leann inspired horses and people alike to always give their very best, a quality she embodied in everything she did. All who knew her learned to listen closely when she said "I was thinking…" Her leadership and attention to excellence was universal from her beginner level students all the way to the numerous Grand Prix horses she developed throughout her career. Known for her consistency, patience and positivity, she had an ability to bring out the best in everyone and every situation. She took immense pride and pleasure in helping both horses and riders of all levels be the best they could be. Her professional accomplishments as both trainer and rider are far too numerous to list, but she enjoyed success right through to the last class she competed in, winning the Futures Prix aboard her trusted partner Graf Joe, in great style at the World Equestrian Center in Ohio on November 18. Nothing was more important to Leann than her family, whose needs she always put first. The greatest joy of her life was spending time with her family, especially her granddaughters, and watching her children become parents. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to an organization of your choice. Leann is survived by her adoring husband, Jeff Jones, Valatie, NY, daughter Danielle P. Flavin, and granddaughter Giselle Agnes Flavin, Valatie, NY, son John D. Flavin (wife Alisse) and granddaughter Loudon Alice Flavin, Saratoga Springs, NY, dear friend Sarah Hunter, Stuyvesant, NY, father Dan Kelly (partner Kate O'Hara) and mother Joan Kelly, brother Daniel Kelly (wife Vicki), nieces and nephews Patrick Kelly, Erin Kelly and Matthew Kelly (wife Jessie), Purcellville, VA. Visitation will be held Thursday, December 28, from 4-6pm at the Raymond E. Bond Funeral Home, Rt. 9, Valatie, NY.