We celebrate the vibrant life and legacy of Kelly Anne Andrew (née Blatti), age 65, who passed away peacefully on August 20, 2026 surrounded by her family. Kelly was a lifelong resident of Manhattan, Illinois, a town she called home her entire life.

Born on January 31, 1961, to Douglas M. Blatti and Maryian N. (née Moreno) Blatti Sellin, Kelly grew up with a fiercely independent and energetic spirit, never mincing words. As a young girl, she famously preferred playing baseball with the boys over typical homemaker duties. Her passion and competitive drive followed into adulthood, where she proudly served as both the manager and second baseman for her Joliet women’s recreational baseball team.

Kelly evoked an immense fiery passion clearly evident in her love for music. She was a true fan of hard rock and heavy metal, bringing the rock 'n' roll spirit to the stage singing in her husband's band in their youth. She regularly attended concerts with her family.

Beyond the music and green baseball diamond, Kelly possessed an enormous heart for all living things. She adored animals and wild critters of all kinds, even raccoons. Her home was never without the comfort of a beloved cat, dog, or both. Every spring and summer, she poured her energy into tending her beautiful flowers, a tradition involving taking her children to the local nursery to pick out the perfect blooms.

Above all, Kelly believed in giving back. Carrying on a vital legacy passed down from her own father, she instilled the deep value of helping others through community service into her children. Kelly was a bright, welcoming light who blended a warm heart with an unforgettable personality. She leaves behind a legacy defined by her devotion as a wife and mother, her loyalty as a friend, and her unmatched ability to bring joy and laughter to every room she entered.

She is survived by her loving husband, David Nathan Andrew; her loving child, Brie-Anna Lynne Andrew (Joshua Miller) and grandcats; her nieces Stephanie Brooke Blatti (Freddy Montoya), Brianne Bailey, and Ryn Robitske; her nephew Matthew Robitske; her cherished great nephews & great niece Angelo, Arsenio, Armani, Alexandrea, and Brayden; her brother Douglas M. Blatti, Jr. (Kathy); and her mother Maryian N. (née Moreno) Blatti Sellin.

She was preceded in death by her loving son, Nathan David Andrew; her nephew Thomas “Tommy” R. Blatti; her cherished great niece, Ariel Marcela Montoya; her brother, Joseph James Blatti; her sister-in-law Sheryl Ann (née Andrew) Robitske; her mother-in-law, Twilla Laurel (née Porch) Andrew and father-in-law, Norman Dwayne Andrew; and her father, Douglas M. Blatti. She came from a large family of many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Visitation for Kelly will take place on Thursday, August 27, 2026 from 3:00-8:00 P.M. at Forsythe Gould Funeral Home. Service will be held the next day on Friday, August 28, 2026 at 10:00 A.M., also at the funeral home, which will be immediately followed by procession to Wilton Cemetery, Wilton Center, IL. Arrangements entrusted to Forsythe Gould Funeral Home, 507 S. State St., Manhattan, IL 60442, 815-478-3321, www.forsythegouldfh.com.