Kellie Rush was born on May 18, 1982 in Fayettvile North Carolina. Kelli was the second born to Janice and Danny Rush. She was the second oldest out of four siblings.

Kelli recieved her early education at Our Mother of Consolation and Bishop McDevitt High School.Kelli recieved a full gymnastics scholarship to Western Michigan University where she recieved a Bachelor of Science degree.

Gymnastics was her passion which she pursued a career as a professional gymnastics coach for over ten years.

Her last place of employment was Gymland located in Hamilton, New Jersey. A gymnastics scholarship fund has been created by Gymland in Kelli's honor.

Kelli was very family oriented, which she especially loved spending time with the children. Since a little girl Kelli was a pet lover and left behind her two pets Pebbles and Elle.