Kelly Ferrell started working in the mailroom at the Norfolk, VA office of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE) in 1993 through the AbilityOne® Program at Eggleston. The AbilityOne® Program is among the largest sources of employment in the United States for individuals who are blind or have significant disabilities, employing approximately 45,000 individuals across the nation.
When she first started working in the mailroom, Kelly found backlogs of parcels that needed to be shipped. She meticulously sorted the parcels by importance and time sensitivity, and subsequently implemented a new process to prevent future backlogs. With her proactive, detail-oriented nature and effective communication skills, it was clear Kelly would do amazing things with the ACOE.
She worked hard to overcome significant physical challenges from cerebral palsy, like figuring out how to pick up a mail tray without falling– an achievement she would proudly share.
Overtime, Kelly worked her way up to the Mailroom Supervisor where she was responsible for all incoming and outgoing mail, mailroom computer operations, and the training and management of two employees. She often stepped up and helped with tasks that were outside her duties and responsibilities. She was always very approachable, provided outstanding customer service, and was beloved by her coworkers.
To show their appreciation for her hard work, The Army Corps of Engineers gave her an assigned parking space and installed a special railing next to the door she used to enter the building.
In 2009, Kelly Ferrell was the recipient of the Evelyne Villines Award for the East Region. This Award recognizes an individual with a significant disability who advances from work on an AbilityOne contract into employment at a nonprofit, private, or government agency. When the Army Corps of Engineers learned she won the award, they organized a special lunchtime recognition event where the ACOE Commanding Officer was in attendance.
Sylvia Hines, former Director of Supported Employment, met Kelly through Eggleston. Sylvia worked closely with the VP of Government Contracts to staff contracts Eggleston was awarded. Sylvia initially helped Kelly get a job in community, but recognized that she’d be a great potential fit for the ACOE contract.
“Kelly was a strong, independent person. She believed in creating opportunities and making things happen for herself… She was an advocate for people with disabilities and took part in advocacy efforts and leadership conferences where she would share her personal story,” Sylvia stated, reflecting on many wonderful memories of Kelly. “She never forgot a holiday or a birthday. The 18 years I’ve been gone, and she never forgot a single birthday of mine.”
Sylvia also shared that Kelly had two heroes – one was national disability advocate and speaker, Evelyne Villines, who also had a physical disability and overcame many challenges – and the other was Paul Atkinson Sr., Eggleston’s Chief Operating Officer.
Outside of work, Kelly had an eclectic taste in music and enjoyed collecting recordings, including limited editions. One of her greatest pleasures was driving her Ford Mustang with its adapted controls. She believed her ability to drive was one of her most important accomplishments because it has given her an invaluable sense of independence and freedom.
As we reflect on Kelly’s years of service, we are grateful for the incredible impact she had on all us at Eggleston. Kelly overcame many challenges in her day-to-day work and in her lifetime. She will forever be a symbol of strength and resilience for those who knew her and worked with her.
Thank you, Kelly, for your service, your leadership and for paving the way for people with disabilities.
Tribute Wall:
“I had the pleasure of working with Kelly through her entire career with Norfolk District Corps of Engineers. Kelly Ferrell was a caring and giving person who improved Norfolk District through her selfless service every day. Whenever anyone requested assistance from Kelly, she followed through until the task was completed, no matter the challenge or length of time it took. To watch Kelly enter and exit her vehicle every day was a testament to her dedication and inspired anyone who knew her. She was known for doing quiet acts of kindness. For years, she gave each office in our large organization, a goodie box at Christmas often baking the items herself. She was like the “ever ready” bunny. I will miss her smiling face but so glad her struggles are over and she is resting peacefully in heaven. Thank you and God Bless You, Kelly. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.”
– Mrs. Cherie Kunze
“I just have fond memories of Kelly. Whenever I picked up packages from the mailroom, I would end up chatting with her for awhile! She was very nice and personable. I enjoyed knowing her. So sorry to hear about her passing.”
– Gina Baer
“For many, many years during the Christmas holiday, Kelly would bring to each floor / office(s) in the Waterfield Building baskets and baskets of candy and goodies!! She was a much appreciated employee and part of the US Army Corps of Engineer / Norfolk District family. We all loved her and offer our sincerest condolences to her family.”
– Scharlene A. Floyd
“Kelly, Army Corps of Engineers angel and sweetheart. The Army Corps of Engineers was a part of Kelly’s extended family. She loved each of us and made sure all our requests were taken care of. I’m a retiree, and I remember one phone number from all the years I worked at the Corps…..the mail room. I called Kelly several times each week. “Kelly, I have a letter and/or package that needs to be in today’s mail. Can you wait ’till I get downstairs before the mail goes out?” Kelly ALWAYS waited and ALWAYS greeted me with kindness no matter how often I called. Kelly was a friend and Kelly touched my heart. Rest in peace, dearest Kelly.”
– Susan Schrader
“I was so sorry to hear of Kelly’s passing. I’ve been with the Corps of Engineers for 20 years and she was here before me. Kelly taught me how to send FEDEX and with a name like Kelly you just can’t go wrong, lol! She was always kind and understanding. We are going to miss her special treat boxes during the holidays. Rest in Peace, Kelly! We will miss you.”
– Kelli Fairbanks
“Kelly was a very pleasant and friendly person to work with. I always appreciated that she would call me down for anything that looked significant for payroll and government travel card services. This would happen every so often if the payroll office or Citibank had an issue getting mail to the employee’s home address. This helped me and employees avoid hardships and ultimately support the overall Corps mission. She will be missed.”
– Danielle Harper
“I was so very shocked to hear of Kelly’s recent passing. She was a wonderful person and a dedicated worker. My thoughts and prayers are with her family. May she rest in peace.”
– Kathy Perdue
“I am saddened to hear the news of Kelly passing. She was such a sweet and delightful person and I enjoyed running into her in the mailroom or throughout the building – we always had such good conversation! She was an incredibly hard worker and would do anything for anyone. My thoughts go out to her family and also her Eggleston family.
We will miss her here at the District!”
– Krista L. Rice
“Kelly Ferrell was brave, kind, and determined. She worked hard to get things done right the first time always with a smile. Kelly went forth every day in kindness. I will miss her.”
– Alice Pool
“I’ve worked at USACE Norfolk District since 2006, and Kelly was one of the first people who reached out to me and said a friendly word. Kelly was always willing to answer my questions, or to just chat with me which made me feel more welcome in a new office. Every time I passed the mailroom, I would always call out a, “Hey Kelly!” and it makes me so sad to know that I won’t be able to do that anymore. My condolences go out to Kelly’s family, and to her friends, Z and Milton, in the NAO Mailroom- Kelly was a bright light. She will be missed very much, not only by me, but by many at USACE Norfolk District.”
– Stormie S. B. Wicks
“For many, many years during the Christmas holiday, Kelly would bring to each floor / office(s) in the Waterfield Building baskets and baskets of candy and goodies!! She was a much appreciated employee and part of the US Army Corps of Engineer / Norfolk District family. We all loved her and offer our sincerest condolences to her family.”
– Scharlene A. Floyd
“Kelly, Army Corps of Engineers angel and sweetheart. The Army Corps of Engineers was a part of Kelly’s extended family. She loved each of us and made sure all our requests were taken care of. I’m a retiree, and I remember one phone number from all the years I worked at the Corps…..the mail room. I called Kelly several times each week. “Kelly, I have a letter and/or package that needs to be in today’s mail. Can you wait ’till I get downstairs before the mail goes out?” Kelly ALWAYS waited and ALWAYS greeted me with kindness no matter how often I called. Kelly was a friend and Kelly touched my heart. Rest in peace, dearest Kelly.”
– Susan Schrader
‘Tis the Season for #GivingTuesday!
