Christine Diane Kellam

Christine Diane Kellam Obituary Christine Diane Kellam, age 65, peacefully departed this life on Friday, January 2, 2026, in the loving arms of her daughter and sister at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. Affectionately known as Diane, she was born on June 24, 1960, in Franktown, Virginia, to the late Amos Walker Kellam and Arthureen Eley Crudup. Diane received her early elementary education in Florida and Virginia, completing the majority of her schooling within the Somerset/Worcester County school systems. She often shared fond memories of playing sports such as softball and field hockey during her youth. A woman of strong work ethic, Diane began working at a young age, frequently recalling her early years picking crops. Throughout her life, she held several long-term positions, including employment at Campbell Soup Company, Cold Water Seafood, and Eastern Correctional Institution (ECI), where she served as a dietary correctional officer for 16 years before retiring. Diane was a dedicated employee who took pride in her work—often saying she would “show up and show out,” even while undergoing dialysis treatments. At an early age, Diane accepted Christ and was baptized at New Macedonia Baptist Church in Pocomoke, Maryland, under the leadership of the late Bishop Isaac Jenkins, Sr. After relocating to Delmar, Maryland, and later returning to Somerset County, she became a devoted member of Mount Carmel Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Carroll Mills, where she remained a faithful member until her passing. Diane attended services as long as her health allowed and made sure her granddaughter, Ava’Amor, was always by her side and actively involved in church. When unable to attend in person, she created her own “church party” at home—gathering Ava and her grandsons in her room, turning up gospel music, and dancing, singing, laughing, and praising God. She took great pride in teaching them about God’s love and faithfulness. Family meant everything to Diane. She was the devoted mother of one child, Shakiea, whom she worked tirelessly to provide for and nurture. Diane loved weekend outings to local markets and garden centers and welcomed family with open arms—often hosting a house full of cousins who affectionately called her “Aunt Diane,” whether related by blood or not. She enjoyed trips to Ocean City, relaxing on the beach or simply stopping for Thrasher’s fries, as well as barbecues and Sunday dinners. Diane found great joy in nature, especially gardening. She lovingly tended to flowers, greens, tomatoes, and green beans, sharing stories of how harvesting was done “back in her day.” For family gatherings, she was always the one requested to prepare the greens and beans. Above all, Diane loved fishing and crabbing. She could spend hours on the water and would return home excited to share stories and proudly show off her catch. Diane leaves to cherish her loving memory her only child, Shakiea Kellam of Eden, Maryland; one sister, Brenda K. Whittington (Michael) of Princess Anne, Maryland; one brother, Amos W. Kellam of Jacksonville, Florida; three grandchildren, Ava’Amor, Jayce, and Jasiah Douglas; two nieces, Erica Wright and Karesha Kellam of Salisbury, Maryland; one nephew, Hughes Wright III of Salisbury, Maryland; a special son, Mark Douglas, Jr. and a host of cousins, aunts, uncles, and dear friends who will miss her deeply. In addition to her parents, Diane was preceded in death by her brothers, Henry K. “Lee” Razz and Tony Razz, her sister, Amy D. Reddick and both her maternal and paternal grandparents.

Christine Diane Kellam

June 24, 1960 - January 2, 2026