Kelsey Flynn O'Connor

Kelsey Flynn OConnor, 31, of Newport, died after a brief illness on Wednesday, March 28, 2018 at the home of her parents in Middletown. Kelsey was born on February 17, 1987 in Newport, she is the daughter of Jack and Chyleene (Flynn) OConnor. Kelsey lived her life boldly and bravely. All who knew her will lovingly remember her contagious laugh and bright smile. She enjoyed the simple things in life - good food, loud music, sunshine, and quiet time with a book. Her adventurous side, though, loved roller coasters, fast boats, and skiing. She was constantly trying to make people laugh with fake burps, headlock hugs, and a sarcastic sense of humor. Kelsey taught so many about the importance of inclusion and focusing on ability over disability. Her lessons and light will continue to shine for many years to come.Kelsey has been wonderfully supported by many amazing people throughout her life, including caring doctors and nurses, teachers and friends at Middletown Public Schools, and the incredible staff at Looking Upwards.In addition to her parents, Kelsey is survived by her two sisters: Meghan Ford and her husband Jay of Middletown and Cate OConnor and her fiance Andrew Sullivan of Boston, her grandmother, Marilyn Lynn Flynn of Newport, a niece and nephew, Addie and Jack Ford, and many cousins, aunts and uncles who loved her and were inspired by her each day. She will be missed dearly by her housemates Hope, AnnMarie, and Rayna.She was preceded in death by her grandfather, Lt. Gen. William Sheridan Flynn, USA, (Ret.), grandparents Joseph and Ruth OConnor, and aunt Elizabeth O'Connor.Calling hours will be Monday, April 2, 2018 from 4:00-7:00pm at Hambly Funeral Home, 30 Red Cross Avenue, Newport, RI.A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, April 3 at 10:00 am at St. Marys Church, Spring Street, Newport, RI. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Kelsey for their work to build inclusive communities, donate online at www.thekelsey.org or by mail to The Kelsey, 617 Fillmore St, San Francisco, CA 94117, or to Looking Upwards, P.O. Box 4289, Middletown, RI 02842 or www.lookingupwards.org. Cemetery Details St. Columba Catholic Cemetery 465 Browns Lane Middletown, RI, 02842