Obituary: Kelly Lynn Moriarty

Kelly Lynn Moriarty passed away suddenly February 21, 2026, near Moapa Valley, Nevada. She was born November 10, 1959, in Aurora, Colorado.

Kelly was best recognized for her warmth and love for those around her and made a significant impact in the lives of her family, friends, and colleagues.

Kelly devoted many years of her life working as a cage cashier at The Dunes, Caesars Palace, and Sam’s Town Hotel/Casinos. Her journey as an Air Force spouse showcased her strength, embodying what many have called the toughest job in the military, effortlessly balancing the challenges that came with it.

A proud graduate of Chaparral High School in Las Vegas, Kelly was an enthusiastic individual who continued to find joy and purpose despite facing multiple medical conditions. Resilient and optimistic, she embodied the spirit of the “Energizer Bunny,” always keeping her spirits high and encouraging others to do the same. Kelly’s infectious happiness left lasting impressions on those she encountered, making the world around her a brighter place.

Family was everything to Kelly. She dedicated herself to raising her son, Chris Ferguson, into a man she admired, believing deeply in the value of family. Her beloved daughter-in-law, Allison Ferguson, and granddaughters, Blakely, Reagan, and Autumn, brought immense joy to her life. She cherished the time she spent with them, especially in the kitchen, where her passion for baking came to life with delicious banana, zucchini, and various dessert breads.

A host parent to exchange students Lidwina and Jannis Riemann, Kelly embraced these relationships and considered their parents, Matthias and Bettina, as part of her extended family. She had a special bond with her ward and held dear memories of individuals such as Richard and Lorraine O’Dell, and Cindy and David McMurray, all of whom she cared for deeply.

Kelly’s interests ranged from baking to collecting rubber ducks, toy robots, and baby Yodas, known affectionately as Grogu. She was a devoted fan of the Vegas Golden Knights, an enthusiasm she shared with her loved ones.

In addition to her personal joys, Kelly was a proud member of the VFW Auxiliary Post 8336, where she contributed her time and energy to support fellow veterans and the community.

She leaves behind her husband, Michael Moriarty; son, Chris (Allison) Ferguson; granddaughters: Blakely, Reagan, and Autumn; mother, Mary Ulrey; sisters: Debi Crosby and Cynde Scrutton; brothers: William Scott Ulrey and Kenneth Jason Ulrey; and cherished friendships that will remain forever in the hearts of those who knew her. Kelly was preceded in death by her father, Harry Kenneth Ulrey.

A viewing will be held on Thursday, March 5, 2026, 3:30-4:30 p.m. at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Hinckley Chapel, 1505 Hinckley Ave, Logandale, NV 89021, followed by the funeral service at 5:00 p.m. Graveside services will be held Friday, March 6, 2026, 9:20 a.m. at the Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 1900 S. Veterans Memorial Blvd, Boulder City, NV 89005.

The family invites you to leave a message or memory in their Guest Book at www.moapavalleymortuary.com.

Kelly Lynn Moriarty will be lovingly remembered for her unwavering spirit, her ready smile, and her ability to uplift others. She truly was the best thing to ever happen in the lives of those who loved her, and her legacy will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her.