Gale Pressley Kelly, 64, of Kannapolis, passed away on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, at Tucker Hospice House in Kannapolis after a yearlong battle with Pancreatic cancer.

Gale was born August 21, 1961, in Cabarrus County, North Carolina to the late Boyce Warren Pressley and the late Bobbie Jean Clayton.

She was also preceded in death by her sister, Jean Rutherford.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, August 30, 2026, at 2:30 PM at Forest Hill United Methodist Church in Concord officiated by Pastor Wes Judy. Following the service, the family will receive friends in the Fellowship Hall of the church. Interment will be private.

Survivors include husband of 27 years, David Kelly; daughter, Miranda Tilley (husband, Andrew); grandchildren, Harlan Moss, Leland Tilley, and Wren Tilley; and son, Corbin Murray (wife, Callie); grandchildren, Wade Murray and Warren Murray.

Gale was an educator at heart and began her teaching career in 1983 with Kannapolis City Schools. She was a Nationally Board Certified teacher with a master’s degree in education. Her attention and tenacity to help children navigate their educational journey was unmatched. She was known for her compassion for young people and her passion for teaching. Outside of the classroom, she organized trips out of the country allowing countless students to expand their horizons. She overcame barriers and welcomed students from all walks of life, loving each of them without judgement. She was dedicated to her own children and grandchildren and remained family-focused until her final days.

She loved the beach, attending concerts with her faithful friends, and worshiping at Forest Hill United Methodist Church. An amazing friend, she showed up for her people both spiritually and tangibly. She looked forward to yearly family beach vacations and spending time with her grandchildren, giving each of them a personal nickname. She was an avid lover of her dogs, Axl and Mia with a special place in her heart for her beloved dog, Rose.

Gale was a face of strength and determination as she pushed through many health challenges over the last 20 years and remained as active as possible throughout.

The family would like to express gratitude to the amazing Doctors, nurses and CNAs that touched her life and supported the family at Atrium Health and Atrium Hospice- Cabarrus.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to her favorite charity: St. Jude Children’s Hospital.