Sylvia Ashley Kellner, 90, of Xenia, passed away peacefully on May 28, 2025, at Hospice of Dayton.

Sylvia was born Nov. 13, 1934 in New Brighton, Cheshire, England, to Thomas James Henry Ashley and Violet Ashley. Her spark for life began at a young age, when she learned to overcome some of life's most trying hardships. Sylvia lost her mother at age 2 and her father at age 14. She survived bombings living in the English countryside as a child during World War II, and being thrown from a vehicle during an accident later in life. Despite many difficult experiences, Sylvia found God's blessings in every outcome, and chose to let hope shape her life.

Sylvia pursued a career as a hair-dresser as a young woman living in England. She was working in a salon and attending dances at Sealand US Air Force Base when she met Russell Kellner and romance blossomed. When Russell was shipped back to the U.S., Sylvia boarded the Queen Elizabeth and began her new life in the states. Russell and Sylvia were married on December 9, 1954 in Columbus Ohio. The couple settled in Xenia in 1960, where they raised their two sons. Sylvia became a citizen of the U.S. in 1999.

Sylvia continued a successful career as a hair stylist owning several of her own shops, while caring for her sons, grandsons, great-grandchildren, and several special pets over the years. She cared deeply about her family and made many sacrifices that remain unspoken and unseen, as she carried her strength and resilience as elegantly as one would expect from a true English lady. Her family recalls countless cheerful memories orchestrated by Sylvia, including exotic vacations, pool days, and holidays marrying English and American traditions.

"Lady Ashley," frequently visited Xenia businesses and community centers. She enjoyed going out to eat, and always had a story to tell, a compliment to deliver, and a joke up her sleeve. Never forgetting her roots, Sylvia was featured in local news articles for her correspondence with the Royal Family throughout the years. And while her famous ties always made a conversation more interesting, Sylvia's captivating accent and genuine love for humankind made her the queen of many hearts.

Sylvia was preceded in death by her husband, Russell Lee Kellner; son, Martin Kellner; and Grandson Nicolas Kellner. She is survived by her sons, Howard Kellner and Mark Kellner, both of Xenia; Grandsons, Scott (Asia) Kellner, of East Palatka, Fla., and Eric Kellner, of Xenia; Great-grandchildren, Kelsey Kellner, Kaydence Kellner, Jayden Kellner, and Brooklyn Kellner; Friends, Jeffrey Sillart and Joy; and many extended family members, longtime clients, and friends.

Funeral services will be 11:30 AM Wednesday, June 4th, at McColaugh Funeral Home in Xenia, where visitation will be held 10:30 AM until the time of service.  Burial will be held 11:00 AM Thursday, June 12th, at the Dayton National Cemetery.