Kelly Tain Crosby

Kelly Tain Crosby, beloved daughter, wife, sister, aunt and friend, passed away December 1, 2025 leaving behind a legacy of dedication, intellect, and love. Born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Kelly was the cherished daughter of Robert and Marsha Tain. She graduated from high school at Upper St Clair High School in Upper St Clair, PA then her family later moved to Chicago, where she began shaping the remarkable path that would define her life. Kelly’s academic journey took her to Washington, D.C., where she attended George Washington University. A member of the swim team, she balanced athletics with an extraordinary academic record—earning four unrelated minors, two undergraduate degrees in International Studies and Economics, and a master’s degree in Political Campaign Management from the Elliott School. Her thirst for knowledge was insatiable; she often said she could have been a professional student, and indeed, she lived as one who delighted in learning for its own sake. Her career reflected her passion for politics and service. Kelly ran political campaigns and volunteered nationwide, later running campaigns for the United States Senate, United States Congress and local races across the country. She lived in Germany for a year while attending Feinburg University, broadening her global perspective. Over the course of her career, she worked in 32 states as a political consultant and campaign manager, often running multiple campaigns simultaneously. She also served as a professional lobbyist for National Right to Life and various non-profits, bringing her sharp intellect and tireless energy to causes she believed in. In 2010, Kelly moved to North Carolina to be closer to family. There, she played a pivotal role in reshaping the state’s political landscape, helping to flip North Carolina red for the first time since Reconstruction. In 2017, she met Allen Crosby while commissioned by the Honorable William “Bill” Brawley to run Allen’s campaign. Kelly often joked that Bill was her “Political Dad,” a testament to the deep mentorship and friendship they shared. Kelly and Allen married in 2023 in Washington, D.C., and together they built an amazing life. She adored spending time with her beloved dogs, Sammy and Lizzie, and found joy in travel, coloring, and the small pleasures of life—British television, vibrant wardrobes that contrasted her professional black attire, and the beauty of flowers, especially yellow tulips. Kelly ’s curiosity and love of learning never waned. She delighted in books, ideas, and the pursuit of knowledge, embodying a spirit of lifelong discovery. She is survived by her husband, Allen Crosby; her parents, Robert and Marsha Tain of Charlotte; her maternal grandmother in Chicago; her sisters, Dani and Bekki Tain of Charlotte; her niece, Bria “Squirt”; her “Political Dad,” William “Bill” Brawley; her parents-in-law, Phil and Susan Crosby; her brother-in-law, Michael (Erin) Crosby; and her sister-in-law, Lara Crosby. Kelly is further survived by numerous other relatives and friends who will forever cherish her memory. Kelly's family has given the family of Lowe-Neddo Funeral Home the privilege of caring for her and for them. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held for her at 1:00 pm on Friday, December 12, at St Matthew Catholic Church with the family receiving friends after the mass. The reception will be held at Grace O'Malleys in Matthews. Kelly’s life was one of brilliance, service, and love. She will be remembered for her sharp mind, her boundless energy, her devotion to family and friends, and her ability to find joy in both the grand and simple moments of life. Thank you for your thoughts, prayers and acts of kindness during this most difficult time.