In Loving Memory of Nina Jean (Pullizze) Kelly
Fortified with the Sacraments of Holy Mother Church and surrounded by her loving family, Nina Jean Pullizze Kelly, affectionately known as “Noni,” entered this world on March 16, 1933, and peacefully entered the Kingdom of Heaven on August 9, 2026 at the age of 93.
Born to Italian parents, Anna (Speno) and Pasquale (John) Pullizze, Nina was raised in St. Louis. She attended Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church and school. A trailblazer in her family, she was the first to graduate from high school, earning her diploma from St. Elizabeth Academy. She continued her education by graduating from St. Luke’s School of Nursing, beginning a rewarding career dedicated to caring for others.
Nina continued her nursing career for 33 years, touching countless lives through her compassion, kindness, and dedication.
Nina was the loving mother of three daughters: Ninette Kelly, Beth (Kelly) Bujnak, and Valerie (George) Brier.
She was the beloved grandmother of Diana (Jeremy) Gaukel, Brittany Bujnak, Terry James Bujnak (Daniela Rao), James Nehring (Sophia), and Nicholas Brier.
Her legacy continues through her beloved great-grandchildren: Alex Bujnak, Isabella Bujnak, Cadence Kirchner, Lucas Werner, Angelique Benson, Victoria Washington, Gabrielle Washington, and Baby Nehring.
Nina was the loving sister of Concetta (Pullizze) Kelly, Rosemarie (Pullizze) Bryant. She was also a loving aunt, cousin, and sister-in-law, cherished by her extended family and many who were blessed to know her.
Nina was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Anna (Speno) and Pasquale (John) Pullizze; her husband, Terry Kelly; and her grandchildren, Cameron Brier and Anndrea Bujnak Kirchner.
Faith was the foundation of Nina’s life. A longtime parishioner of Immaculate Heart of Mary, she belonged to the Ladies Sodality and was active in her parish community. Later, as a member of St. Monica Parish, she participated in Women’s A.C.T.S. retreats, sharing her faith and helping others grow closer to God. Her love of Jesus was evident in the way she lived, prayed, and cared for others.
Nina had a true love for life and an infectious smile. She made friends wherever she went—from the nail salon to restaurant servers—and had a special ability to make people feel welcome. She was friendly, kind, artistic, and always interested in the people around her.
She loved to paint, and many family members proudly have her artwork hanging in their homes. Nina was also remarkably modern for her generation. She kept up with friends and family on her GrandPad and Facebook, loved taking selfies, and enjoyed looking at photographs online. She treasured staying connected to the people she loved.
Nina was also known for her wonderful, matter-of-fact personality. She could make people laugh with her honesty, quick wit, and perfectly timed observations. Her laughter was contagious, and her presence brought joy to those around her.
Above all, Nina’s love of Jesus carried her through life and remained with her until the very end. A devout Catholic, Nina lived her life faithfully, striving to be loving, kind, generous, and to emulate Christ in all that she did.
She leaves behind a beautiful legacy of faith, family, laughter, kindness, compassion, and love. Though she will be deeply missed, the memories she created and the love she gave will live on through her daughters, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, siblings, extended family, and all who knew and loved her.
May Nina rest peacefully in the loving arms of Jesus, whom she faithfully served throughout her life.
“Well done, good and faithful servant.”
Matthew 25:23
Services: Funeral Mass on Thursday, August 13, 2026 10:00 AM at St Monica Catholic Church (12136 Olive Blvd). Visitation on Wednesday, August 12 at Kutis South County Chapel (5255 Lemay Ferry Road) from 4:00-7:00 PM. Interment Calvary Cemetery.
Aunt Nina , I love you too much. My Godmother , you have always been not only Godmother but an example of love and caring and Love for Jesus and others. What a great Example.
I love you too much ‘
Kathy