Montine Kelley's Obituary
Montine Kelley was a vibrant, outgoing woman, whose life was defined by faith, service, and joy. She graduated from Howard High School. She attended National School of Business and received a degree in Business. With pride and determination, she and her husband built and operated Tine’s Cleaning Service together.
Deeply rooted in faith, Montine was an active and devoted member of her church. She faithfully participated in events and programs from speaking and planning events. Her servants’ heart reached beyond the church walls. She volunteered with the Read Program in Chattanooga and served with the Chattanooga Prison Ministry, offering hope and compassion. Montine embraced life with joy, she loved singing and dancing. Her warm heart and outgoing spirit could light up any room. She celebrated life fully and inspired others with her energy, kindness, and faith. She loved fashion, she was a fashionista.
Montine was preceded in death by her parents, James and Caroline Tumblin; husband, Oliver H. Kelley; brothers, John H. Tumblin and Edgar Tumblin; sister, Jewel Tumblin; and grandson, Lendell Davis Jr “Spud”.
She leaves to cherish her memories devoted daughter Monica (Clifford) Burney of Chattanooga; sons, Dennis (Wendy) Davis of Chattanooga, and Lendell (Jeanine) Davis of Fayetteville, NC; devoted granddaughter, Carla Petty of Chattanooga; granddaughters, Teajuanna Hudson of Atlanta, GA, and Raven Davis of Los Angeles, CA; grandson, Dennis “Dee” Davis Jr of Murfreesboro, TN; sisters, Gloria Harris, Barbara Davenport, and Buelah King all of Chattanooga, Katheryn Sadler of Kennesaw, GA, and Vivian Langston of Conyers, GA; a host of great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Montine will lie-in-state on Friday, February 20, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. at Taylor Funeral Home. Funeral service will follow at 12 noon in the Chapel. Burial in Chattanooga National Cemetery.
What’s your fondest memory of Montine?
What’s a lesson you learned from Montine?
Share a story where Montine's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Montine you’ll never forget.
How did Montine make you smile?

