Idie Friedman

Ida Belle "Idie" (Kelly) Friedman, age 84, formerly of Tomball, Texas and Longmont, Colorado, peacefully went to her heavenly home on July 6, 2026, surrounded by the comfort of home and the love of her family.

In Canon City, Colorado, on November 17, 1941, Idie was born to Leslie Roy and Beulah Brooks (Harmon) Kelly. She was the youngest of the eight Kelly children. Idie spent her childhood in Canon City, where she graduated with the Class of 1959. She began her career working at Fremont National Bank while starting her family, her greatest joy in life.

Later, Idie moved to Longmont, Colorado, where she met the love of her life, Dave Friedman. They married on March 21, 1969, and together they built a beautiful life centered on family, faith, and adventure. Terry Lake held a special place in Idie's heart. It was there that she enjoyed countless summer days water skiing and sharing laughter around the campfires. She was also fond of golf and looked forward each summer to organizing her annual "Mexican Connection" golf tournament, a cherished tradition that brought together family and the golf group for a day of fun competition. An accomplished golfer, she took pride in the many trophies she earned over the years. One of her favorite memories was meeting golf legend Lee Trevino and receiving his autograph on her scorecard.

While in Tomball, Idie treasured the time she spent playing weekly card games with her woman’s group, where fellowship and lifelong friendships flourished. She also delighted in attending the occasional Houston Astros game with her Texas gals. She enjoyed golfing, bowling, and attending live theater wherever her journeys took her. Among the many productions she saw, The Phantom of the Opera remained her favorite.

Idie dedicated eleven years to the St. Vrain Valley School District, serving as secretary to several principals. Then in 1981, she began a new chapter with Continental Airlines, where she built a remarkable 28-year career, working as a Reservations Manager. In 2001, she and Dave relocated to Tomball, Texas, where she completed her career before eventually returning to Colorado in December of 2023.

Idie was a respected leader who led by example, treating her team members with fairness, empathy, and encouragement while helping them grow professionally. She valued the relationships she made throughout her career and embraced every opportunity to travel the world. Germany held a special place in her heart, where she loved visiting the Christmas markets and spending time with the many dear friends she made there.

A woman of deep and abiding faith, Idie worshiped the Lord and lived her life with grace, gratitude, and compassion. She found great joy in celebrating the holidays, especially Christmas, when her beautifully decorated home became a welcoming place for family and anyone in need of a good meal.

Those who knew Idie will remember her for her generous spirit, warm heart, and genuine love for people. She had a remarkable gift of making everyone feel welcome and respected. Whether she was planning the next family gathering, traveling to a new destination, or simply sharing time with those she loved, she embraced every day with enthusiasm.

Idie was preceded in death by her husband, Dave; her granddaughter, Emily Morris; her parents; and her seven siblings: Gwendolyn, Wayne, Elwood, John, Marvin, Donald and Bernadine. She is lovingly survived by her daughter, Kimberly Morris; her granddaughters, Logan (Toby) Morris, and Morgan Morris; along with many extended family members and dear friends.

Idie's legacy is one of unwavering faith, and unconditional love. She taught those around her the importance of treating others with kindness, embracing life's adventures, and cherishing every moment. To her family, she was simply, Mom, “Freddy,” and Gram—our biggest supporter, our holiday hostess, our travel companion, our prayer warrior, and good friend. While she will be deeply missed, we find peace in knowing she has been reunited with her love, Dave; her precious granddaughter, Emily; and the rest of the Kelly gang, wrapped in the loving presence of our Lord and Savior.

A celebration of Idie's life will take place at 1:00pm on July 24, 2026, at The River Church, at 18668 N. Saint Vrain Drive, Lyons, CO 80540.

“I am the resurrection and the life.” — John 11:25