In Loving Memory of Tanya Kelly

Tanya Kelly, a cherished soul, passed away unexpectedly in Hillsborough, NC December 17, 2023. Tanya was born and raised in Fowlerville, NY, she embodied resilience, compassion, and grace throughout her life.

Tanya’s vibrant spirit and enduring impact will be forever treasured by those who had the privilege of knowing her. She leaves behind a legacy of love and inspiration.

She is lovingly remembered by her husband, Adam Dickens; children, Patrick, Elisabeth, and Andrew; her mother, Patricia; father-in-law, Bob; and her beloved dogs, Ruby and Jolene. She also leaves behind many aunts, uncles, and cousins. Her father, Robert, predeceased her.

Thank you for your support and love during this time.

Adam Dickens – Her loving husband 

Today marks a heartfelt moment as we share with you all an article very close to our hearts. (Adam)
 
I want to take this opportunity to express my deepest gratitude to everyone who has stood by us, contributed to this tribute, and supported us in innumerable ways. Your kindness and efforts have not gone unnoticed, and I thank you from the bottom of my heart!
 
I also had the profound pleasure of meeting with the owners of the magazine. Amid heartfelt embraces, I conveyed my deepest thanks for their incredible work. They shared that this was their inaugural venture into such a tribute, a journey they found both enlightening and deeply honorable, especially in commemorating Tanya’s legacy. They too had shed a few tears while working on it, just as I was writing this.
 
Originally envisioned as a two-page spread, the overwhelming number of heartfelt tributes they offered to extended it to four pages. Although navigating this process has been an emotional odyssey, the outcome, a fitting tribute to her extraordinary life, fills me with gratitude.
 

For those who may not be familiar, this publication showcases the crème de la crème of real estate professionals. In 2023, Tanya was recognized as a superstar, a status she undeniably earned and one she’s held in my eyes for over a decade. I invite you to indulge in the read and celebrate her remarkable achievements alongside us.

Adam

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REMEMBERING TANYA KELLY: A LEGACY IN REAL ESTATE & BEYOND

On December 17, 2023, the world lost a wonderful, cherished soul, as our dear friend, Tanya Kelly, passed away unexpectedly. A loving wife, mother, daughter, friend, and colleague, TANYA was a Triangle real estate SUPERSTAR and a dear friend of the real estate communities in both the Triangle and Rochester, NY, where she began her career.

As a top REALTOR®, co-founder and Broker-in-Charge for RocSite Realty, Tanya built a team and a legacy alongside husband and agency co-founder Adam Dickens. Honoring Tanya’s memory, Adam and the RocSite team are committed to continuing the journey with RocSite Realty, a testament to Tanya’s enduring influence and their shared passion for real estate. Adam fondly remembers Tanya as “a woman who could move mountains,” and “a beacon of happiness and love.” He cherishes the memory of their countless happiness, a trait that shone through in every photograph and shared memory.

As we bid farewell to Tanya, we do not just mourn a tremendous loss; we also celebrate a life that was a beacon of hope, love, and relentless positivity. Her legacy in real estate and beyond stands as a testament to the profound impact one person can have, not only through their professional endeavors but also through the love and joy they share.

We at Triangle Real Producers asked Adam to reach out to some friends, colleagues, and business partners to give a word of tribute to Tanya’s memory.

These are the tributes that came in order. There are many more that came in that couldn’t fit in the magazine that will be posted here soon.
Tribute - Niki King - Agent and Friend

Tanya’s impact on my life was nothing short of profound. She not only revitalized my belief in REALTORS® co-creating together, but also rekindled my faith in the power of sales service to those we assist. Her qualities were nothing short of extraordinary – she was unselfish, endlessly generous with her time, and she possessed the rare ability to truly “show up” for an agent she had never even met from another state. I stand in awe of Tanya’s remarkable character and unwavering dedication to her craft. She was a beacon of inspiration and a testament to the incredible heights one can reach through hard work and genuine care for others. Tanya’s remarkable journey in the real estate world was not only a testament to her professional prowess but also a reflection of her innate goodness. The memories of our interactions are etched in my heart, and I will forever cherish the wisdom, guidance, and kindness she extended to me. Truly left an indelible impression that transcends time and distance. Her legacy will continue to inspire REALTOR® in my own journey as an I and guide me in my pursuit to inspire and guide others. With heartfelt gratitude and admiration,

Nikki King

Agent and Friend

Tribute - Kimberly - Longtime Friend

Tanya and I crossed paths roughly 15 years ago at Carverly’s Irish Pub in Rochester, NY. Both of us were single women at the time and an immediate connection was forged on that fateful day. Meeting Tanya was akin to gaining a friend, whether you were aware of it or not. Throughout the years, she remained a constant presence in my life, always ready to offer her support to not just me but to countless others as well.

When Tanya met Adam, it was evident that something significant had transpired. Her beaming smile spoke volumes. It was from that moment onward that I graciously accepted the role of stepping aside as Tanya found her new love and soulmate’s confidant in Adam. It was around this juncture that she decided to embark on her journey in real estate. I suggested she become an agent, and she fondly recalled her father saying the same thing. With Adam’s encouragement and her inherent strengths, she blazed a trail of success in the field. Tanya had discovered her true passion and excelled beyond measure. Witnessing her achievements filled me with immense pride. Yet, amid all her accomplishments, Tanya’s greatest joy and achievement were her children. Every conversation was peppered with mentions of the “kids.”

Tanya’s unwavering optimism, her boundless amiability, her infectious laughter, and her indomitable spirit were qualities that I greatly admired. But above all, I miss the sound of her voice, her laughter, and the captivating stories she shared. You were a truly beautiful soul, my dear friend. May your spirit rest peacefully.

With love, Kimberly

Friend

Tribute - Lisa Gunther - Family

Tanya entered my life seven years ago, and she was the most incredible birthday surprise I could have ever hoped for. I discovered a remarkable woman with a relentless determination to pursue her dreams and beliefs. Tanya’s unwavering energy to bring happiness to everyone around her was truly heartwarming. She didn’t just stop at achieving her goals; she went above and beyond to enhance whatever task was at hand. Tanya poured her heart and soul into becoming a well-respected REALTOR®, working tirelessly day and night to match the right people with the perfect homes. Her presence had a soothing effect, making others feel at ease in her company. She always wore a radiant smile and inspired those around her to embrace life to the fullest. Tanya’s absence will be deeply felt by so many whose lives she touched.

Lisa Gunther (Family)

Tribute - Alan & Amy Clapp - Clients

We first met Tanya Kelly when we happened across a house in Hillsborough, NC, on a Sunday afternoon in the summer of 2002. I’ve never worked with any REALTOR® in my life (we built our first and only house), and she was just so great every step of the way. She was very hands-on, always available to us, and became such a good friend. She even dog-sat for us as soon as we moved into our dream house when we had to attend our daughter’s wedding out of town. Tanya was always at the top of her game and went way above and beyond for all her clients. Her excitement was always infectious, and every interaction with her was a pleasure. I’m so glad to have known her and to call her my friend. I miss her very much.

Sincerely,

Amy and Alan Clapp

Tribute - Bill and Katie Barnes - Client and Vendor/Partner

My wife and I met Tanya by complete chance. We were wading in the shallow end of the homebuying market, and my wife, Katie, wanted to see a house in Mebane. We were very early in our search, and I didn’t want to go over to anybody’s time, but we went anyway. It is amazing how the decisions we make can change our lives. That appointment was the day we met Tanya, and Adam. From that day forward a professional relationship became a personal friendship. Tanya had a natural ability to win the hearts of many. She was always transparent and honest with her clients, driven by patience and the desire to make sure her clients found the house that fit them. The short year that we knew Tanya has made an impact on us that will last our lifetimes. Rest in peace our dear friend,

Bill and Katie Barnes 

Client and Vendor/Partner

Tribute - Kelly Davis - Vendor/Partner

Tanya brought so much energy and excitement with her everywhere she went! Tanya had a refreshing bubbly attitude concerning life and business. She was always willing to help her neighbors and fellow businesspeople with referrals and even her own business decisions. Tanya led by devoting too many friends, and her loss is a heart-wrenching loss in the community. We will continue to carry on the passion, dedication, and joyful, compassionate demeanor of a truly loving business partner. We are constantly looking up to fill each day, just as Tanya Kelly did, and make a positive impact on those I interact with daily. Tanya left us all with that example to live by.

 

Kelly Davis 

Vendor/Partner

Tribute - Peter F. Hunt - CEO/Chairman Hunt Real Estate Corporation

Several years ago Tanya joined our company, Hunt Real Estate, in Rochester, NY. Tanya was a leader in our industry and exuded the traits of a leader: enthusiasm and self-confidence. These attributes powered Tanya and Adam to move to North Carolina and take the risk of starting their own brokerage. That takes guts, which Tanya had in spades. We were talking just in the weeks before her passing about taking an innovative step to introduce a new concept for home sellers. She always goes above and beyond to bring technology skills and talents, Tanya and Adam were willing to set their network beyond family and community ties. We are here to prove from a simple investor home inspector visual expert, with a friendly and down-to-earth smile, while respecting her ambition, honesty greatly and will keep her in our thoughts and prayers.

Peter F. Hunt

CEO/Chairman Hunt Real Estate Corporation

Tribute - Rebecca Witherspoon - Colleague and Friend

Working with Tanya was a joy. I have been her transaction coordinator since 2022, and I will miss every phone call and every “catch-up.” She was so caring and selfless. She truly ventured to develop a connection with every client and made them feel like family. She always goes above and beyond to make people feel as loved and valued as possible. My husband and I were celebrating our five-year anniversary by traveling to Las Vegas, and she made the effort to surprise us by having champagne and chocolate cake delivered to our hotel room! I felt loved in that moment, and I’ll always remember her as someone who really loved life and made every moment count. There was always a funny story to share with Ruby or Joe, the dogs, and when we would chat after work, often of cruising with her daughter or Adam on a real estate errand, happy as a clam! I will miss her dearly, and I think about her often. She was a wonderful friend and will be sorely missed. Love you, Tanya.

Rebecca Witherspoon

Colleague and Friend

Tribute - Emerson and Sarah Swinford - Clients

We were recent transplants to North Carolina, a bit adrift and unmoored, not having our usual network of friends and family to turn to for help navigating our new home state. So, it was quite happenstance that we randomly called Roselite through an ad for a home in a city that we weren’t completely unfamiliar with. We were quite sure what we were going to get. We were instantly in love—both with the house that would eventually become ours and with Tanya’s larger-than-life personality. Her real estate acumen and thoughtfulness guided home as purchase our dream home in an extremely competitive market. Forever, it was the fast friendship that we forged that made us feel like we have truly won. Her effervescent and kind spirit reaffirmed our decision to move to across the country. We knew that if we called Tanya and her husband/partner, Adam we’d be alright. Tanya was a beautiful soul that always exuded grace, wit, and generosity. She left us all far too soon and will be deeply missed. For us, her spirit will carry on not only in the house that she helped us purchase, but in our hearts, that is forever home to our cherished memories of her. With deepest sympathy,

Emerson and Sarah Swinford

Clients

The following was published in the magazine January 2023. It was related to our production being one of the top producers in North Carolina.

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