Kelly Dawn Stokes

It is with heavy hearts and profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Kelly Dawn Stokes, a beloved wife, sister, aunt, and friend, who left us peacefully on June 7, 2026, at the age of 59. Born on October 1, 1966, in Norman, Oklahoma, Kelly's life was a testament to love, kindness, and unwavering dedication to her family and community. Kelly was the cherished daughter of the late Richard and Mary Stokes, who instilled in her a love for learning and a compassionate spirit. She was also lovingly guided by her late stepmother, Lillian Williams, who played an important role in shaping the remarkable woman Kelly became. Kelly endured the loss of her dear sister-in-law, Claudia Griffith, whose memory she always treasured. A devoted partner in life, Kelly was married to the love of her life, Senthia "Sendy" A. Sanders. Their union was a beautiful testament to love and companionship, filled with shared dreams, laughter, and countless adventures. Kelly's academic pursuits led her to the University of Oklahoma, where she earned a Master's degree, a testament to her dedication and perseverance. Her education was a stepping stone to a life filled with purpose and the pursuit of knowledge. Throughout her life, Kelly was surrounded by the love and support of her family. She is survived by her sister Gerry Griffith and her partner Jan Chadwick, brothers Jim Griffith with his wife Karen, and Sam Griffith with his wife Jennifer. She was a loving sister-in-law to Cerry Leffler, Jillian Sturgis and her husband Garrett, Jordan Sanders and his wife Katie, and Jason Miller and his wife Veronica. Her nieces Amy Griffith and her husband Errol, Brooke Disney and her husband Mike, and Lauren Wynn and her husband Tom, as well as her nephews Brian Griffith and his wife Kristi, James Griffith, Kyle Leffler, and Jacob Leffler, were all deeply touched by her kindness and generosity. Kelly's heart overflowed with love for her great-nephews Samuel, Drew, Ilex, and Jaxson, and her great-nieces Soleil, Olivia, Maryetta, and Annabell. Her nurturing spirit and infectious smile left an indelible impression on all who knew her, including her numerous loving friends who became an extended family. Her legacy of kindness and generosity extended beyond her immediate family. In her memory, donations can be made to the Plant A Tree Foundation, an organization close to her heart, reflecting her love for nature and commitment to a better world. As we remember Kelly, let us celebrate her life by cherishing the moments we shared with her and by embodying the compassion and warmth she showed to everyone she met. Her spirit will live on in the hearts of those who loved her and in the trees planted in her memory. A celebration of Kelly's beautiful life will be held in the coming weeks, where family and friends will gather to honor her memory and share stories of the joy and love she brought into the world. The family requests privacy during this time of deep mourning and thanks everyone for their thoughts, prayers, and support.