Kelly McKean Link

Born in Austin, Texas, in 1983, Kelly spent her life creating connections, building community, and filling every room she entered with laughter, warmth, and love. She lived life fully and intentionally, embracing every opportunity to bring people together and make them feel welcome.

Kelly is survived by her devoted husband, Chris Smith; her three beloved sons, Hudson Smith (11) and twins Lincoln and Weston Smith (8); her parents, Molly and Rennie Link; her sister, Lisa Link and her bulldog Pam.

She also leaves behind an extraordinary extended family on the Link, McKean, and Smith sides, whom she loved as dearly as siblings. Kelly's definition of family stretched far beyond relatives. She considered her Austin Beerworks family, neighborhood friends, school community, camping cousins, and lifelong friends across the country to be part of her family as well. The countless people whose lives she touched were welcomed into her circle with open arms, unconditional support, and endless generosity.

For 13 years, Kelly served as the Human Resources and Office Manager at Austin Beerworks, where she became the heart and soul of the brewery. She was the glue that kept everyone laughing, well-fed, well-loved, and connected. While her official title described her job, her coworkers knew her by many others: "Snack Master," "Den Mother," and "Doer of Everything." Whether she was celebrating milestones, supporting someone through a difficult time, or simply making sure everyone felt included, Kelly's impact reached every corner of the organization and every person fortunate enough to work alongside her.

Kelly was deeply involved in her community and especially dedicated to her sons. She served as room mom for each of their classrooms and rarely missed a sporting event, school activity, performance, or celebration. She was the kind of mother who showed up wholeheartedly, bringing the same enthusiasm, encouragement, and love to her children's lives that she brought to every relationship.

A lifelong music lover, Kelly could often be found enjoying Austin's vibrant live music scene. She frequented many of the city's iconic music venues and treasured evenings spent at concerts with friends and family. Music, like so much else in her life, was something she experienced with joy and shared generously with others.

Kelly's creativity seemed limitless, among all her talents, she may be best remembered for her extraordinary gift of cooking and hosting. Kelly made everything from scratch, with her whole heart, and believed every meal should be accompanied by a fresh drink and good company. Her gatherings became legendary among family and friends, complete with themed menus, thoughtful details, activities for kids of all ages, and an unwavering belief that everyone was welcome.

Food was one of Kelly's love languages. She showed people she cared through homemade meals, carefully planned celebrations, and recipes perfected over years of practice. Those who knew and loved her each carry a favorite dish, a favorite gathering, or a favorite memory around her table. She had a remarkable ability to make people feel at home, no matter where they were.

Kelly's laughter was infectious. She was often the first to laugh at a joke and almost always the loudest. Her joy was contagious, her friendship steadfast, and her generosity boundless. She approached life with an open heart and a deep appreciation for the people around her, leaving an indelible mark on every community she was part of.

Though her passing leaves an immeasurable void, Kelly's legacy lives on in the family she cherished, the friendships she nurtured, the communities she strengthened, and the countless memories she created. She was a bright light to so many, and that light will continue to shine through all those who were fortunate enough to know and love her.

For everyone whose life was touched by Kelly, we imagine she would leave us with the same words she so often shared:

"See you soon, buddy."

https://everloved.com/life-of/kelly-link/