The community of Crossville, TN, is mourning the unexpected passing of Kelly Hooks, a woman whose life was defined by compassion, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to helping others. As a licensed occupational therapist and Co-Founder of Stepping Stones Therapy, Kelly was a guiding light for many individuals and families. Her tireless work helped children and adults overcome challenges, build confidence, and achieve independence. Kelly’s impact was profound, as she touched the lives of so many people, and her unexpected death has left an irreplaceable void in the hearts of all who knew her.
Kelly was more than just a skilled professional—she was a compassionate soul whose warmth and kindness extended beyond her work. As a wife, friend, and community member, she was a constant source of love and support to those fortunate enough to know her. Her dedication to others, both personally and professionally, earned her the admiration and respect of everyone she encountered. Whether she was working with a patient, supporting a colleague, or spending time with her family and friends, Kelly was always present, always giving, and always making a difference. Her sudden passing has shaken the community to its core, leaving those who loved her struggling to come to terms with the loss of such a remarkable woman.
Kelly’s passion for occupational therapy was more than just a career—it was a calling. At Stepping Stones Therapy, she transformed the lives of many, working with patience, empathy, and an unwavering belief in the potential of every individual she served. She had a remarkable ability to connect with her clients, understanding their needs and helping them navigate the challenges they faced. Her clients and colleagues alike admired her ability to bring hope and encouragement to every session. Her positive energy was infectious, and she inspired those around her to keep going, even when the road ahead seemed difficult.
For Kelly, every day was an opportunity to make a difference, to help someone take that next step toward independence, and to empower them to live their best life. Whether she was helping a child take their first independent steps, guiding a patient through recovery, or simply offering a listening ear, Kelly gave her all. Her belief in her clients’ potential was unwavering, and it was this belief that helped them overcome obstacles and achieve things they never thought possible. The countless success stories of those who worked with Kelly are a testament to her expertise and the incredible impact she had on the lives of others.
But Kelly’s contributions were not limited to her professional life. Beyond her role as an occupational therapist, she was a devoted wife, a cherished friend, and a deeply compassionate soul. Her husband, Matt Hooks, is now faced with the immense grief of losing his beloved wife, and the community is coming together to support him in any way they can during this heartbreaking time. To honor Kelly’s memory and to offer support to Matt, a fundraiser has been established to help with expenses and to ensure that Kelly’s legacy of kindness and generosity continues to make an impact in the lives of others.
The outpouring of love and support from friends, family, and the community has been a testament to the lives Kelly touched. Those who knew her understand the depth of her impact—how she was always there when needed, offering encouragement, lending a hand, or simply listening. She had a unique ability to make people feel seen and valued, and her presence brought a sense of calm and comfort to those around her. The fundraiser is a way for the community to give back to Kelly, to honor her memory, and to support the family she loved so much.
Kelly’s husband, Matt, has expressed deep gratitude for the support, comfort, and love that has been extended to him during this incredibly difficult time. Losing Kelly has been a devastating blow, and the grief is immense, but the love and support pouring in from the community are helping to carry him through. While no amount of money or support can bring Kelly back, the fundraiser provides a tangible way for people to honor her memory and continue her legacy of service and selflessness.
As we remember Kelly Hooks, we celebrate a life filled with purpose, love, and an extraordinary ability to make the world a better place. Though her time with us was far too short, her influence will live on through the lives she changed and the hearts she uplifted. Kelly’s work will continue to inspire those who knew her, as her patients and colleagues carry forward the lessons she imparted—lessons about kindness, compassion, and the power of believing in others. Her legacy will endure in the many lives she touched, and her memory will continue to inspire those who work in the fields of therapy, healthcare, and service to others.
Kelly was a woman who lived her life with intention. She knew the importance of making a difference, not just in the lives of her patients but also in the lives of those around her. Her family, friends, and colleagues will continue to hold her in their hearts, carrying with them the lessons she taught, the love she shared, and the light she brought into the world. Kelly’s story is one of love, dedication, and an unyielding belief in the goodness of others.
In a world that often feels uncertain, Kelly’s life serves as a reminder of the power of compassion and the importance of dedicating ourselves to helping others. Her warmth and kindness have left an indelible mark on the community, and as we grieve her loss, we also find comfort in the knowledge that her spirit lives on in all the people she helped and in the love she gave so freely. Kelly’s legacy is one of healing, hope, and selflessness, and her memory will continue to inspire those who carry her work forward.
To support Matt and honor Kelly’s memory, donations can be made to the fundraiser set up in her name. Every contribution, no matter the size, is a reflection of the love and appreciation for a woman who gave so much to others. The funds raised will help with expenses and provide support to the family as they navigate this difficult time. It is also a way for the community to come together and show their gratitude for Kelly’s lifelong dedication to others.
Kelly’s kindness, dedication, and unwavering spirit will never be forgotten. As we mourn her loss, we also celebrate the incredible life she lived and the positive impact she had on everyone around her. May her memory continue to inspire and remind us to approach life with the same generosity and compassion that she so effortlessly shared. Rest in peace, Kelly. Your legacy will continue to shine brightly in the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing you. You are gone, but never forgotten. GoFundMe
