Date of Birth: 06/27/1972

Date of Death: 08/21/2026

Burial and Interment Information: Private

Obituary and Services

With hearts full of love and cherished memories, we celebrate the Life of a Remarkable Woman of God, Niobe Ali Thiel-Kelly. A loving soul and a voice that was never afraid to be heard. Niobe brought kindness, laughter, strength and love into the lives of those around her. She loved deeply, cared genuinely and spoke boldly, leaving behind memories that will remain in the hearts of her family and friends.

Niobe was born (to the late) Catherine E. William-Thiel-Johnson on June 27, 1972 in Houston, TX. While being born in Houston, TX, Niobe was raised in New Orleans, Louisiana, where she was a longtime resident. She attended Alfred Bonnabel High School, but graduated from John McDonald High School.

After relocating due to Hurricane Katrina in 2005, Niobe found shelter in North Charleston, South Carolina. As soon as Niobe was secured she found a church home, Little Bethel Pentecostal Reformed Holiness Church here in Charleston, South Carolina where she served the Lord faithfully.

In 2014, she met Willie Kelly Jr., who soon became the Love of Her Life. It took some time, but Niobe and Willie Jr. finally united in matrimony in 2023.

Niobe worked for the Goodwill where she served her community with Grace and Pride.

Niobe preceded in death after her mother, Catherine E. Johnson; sister, Sebrina E. Thiel; nephew, Najeal S. Thiel; great nephew, Jayden S. Thiel.

Niobe leaves to cherish her memory; her husband, Willie Kelly Jr., her father, Henry L. Johnson; her sister, Victoria Torre Thiel; her brother, Jeremy G. Johnson; one nephew, David L. Thiel; three nieces, Monique J. Thiel, Logan A. Thiel (Goddaughter) and Aniya C. Wallace; two great-nieces, Journei Thiel and Saylor G. Thiel and four great-nephews, Jonquell Thiel, Torey Thiel, David L. Thiel Jr. and Legend C. Thiel and one Godson and a host of cousins, aunts, uncles and family.

Mrs. Niobe Ali Thiel-Kelly, 54, of North Charleston, South Carolina entered into eternal rest on August, 21, 2026.

The Home Going Service will take place Saturday, September 5, 2026, 11:00am at The Lowcountry Mortuary.