William A. Kelley, 81
July 31, 1938 - March 10, 2020
Salem- William A. "Bill" Kelley, 81, of Salem, passed away in the early morning hours on Tuesday, March 10, 2020 at his home in the company of his loving family. He was the devoted husband of Barbara R. Kelley of Salem – they enjoyed 54 years of laughter and love.
Bill lived a full life of creative expression, adventurous travel and exploration, and service. He was born in Salem in 1938 and is a U.S. Marine Corps Veteran of the Vietnam War who served his country as a Lance Corporal from 1957-1960. He received his bachelor’s degree from Salem State in 1966 and later earned his Masters of Fine Arts from Utah State University in 1971. Bill, together with his wife Barbara, served as a US Peace Corps volunteer in Malaysia from 1966-1968. Back at home, Bill served the City of Salem as Ward 5 Councilor from '96-'99 under Mayors Harrington and Usovicz. Throughout his life, Bill expressed his passion as a photographer both in his freelance career and in his own artistic pursuits. He will be dearly missed.
Surviving Bill is his wife, Barbara (Russell) Kelley; their daughter, Jaime Kelley (partner: Laura Orlando); his grandsons Seamus and Eamon Layer-Kelley and several nieces and nephews. Bill was preceded in death by his father and mother, William J. Kelley and Marie (Levesque) Borasia, and his siblings: Jane Frost, Judith Kelley, David Kelley, and Joanne Bogel.
Due to concerns for the public health and the family’s well being Bill’s funeral arrangements are being held privately and the visitation has been canceled. A celebration of his life for all friends and family will be held at a future date. Should you wish, In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bill's name to Dana Farber Cancer Institute.
To send a condolence to the family please comment below.