Marian Kelly

September 28, 2019

Marian grew up in Huntingdon, Quebec in a strict but loving home.

After graduating high school, her father arranged for her first and only “official” job as an office clerk for the Birks Corners Company in Montreal, where, as a self-taught two-fingered typist, she processed orders for goods and materials that were supplied to dry goods stores across the province during World War II.

Soon after, she married her sweetheart Ed, and they moved to Cornwall, Ontario.

While raising a family of four, Marian also followed her passions by establishing her own antique business and later, a successful skating shop. She was well known and highly respected in the skating community.

Far from being tall, she had an iron will and strong determination that quietly imparted a presence far beyond her stature.

Marian possessed old-time values and believed that if you didn’t have anything nice to say about someone, then you should say nothing at all – her silences could speak volumes.

Resourceful and frugal, there was nothing chipped or broken that Marian could not fix without the help of a little crazy glue! Old pieces of furniture were always regarded as objects that could be repurposed for other uses.

Her support and devotion to Ed were unwavering and the two were inseparable. They shared many adventures. She was an able sea woman/first mate and the two of them circumnavigated all five Great Lakes as well as completing an epic trip down the Mississippi, across the Gulf of Mexico, up the eastern seaboard and ultimately back to Bayfield, Ontario – their home in later life.

She made amazing pies and had a special affinity for Scotch! Marian loved her book club, enjoyed the friendly competition at the Bayfield Croquet Club, and was an active member of Knox Presbyterian Church, Bayfield. She would always compliment you on your choice of outfit.

Beloved wife of the late James Edward “Ed” Kelly (2018) for 70 years. Cherished Mom of Doug Kelly (the late Marilyn), the late Stephen Kelly (Karen), James Kelly (Nancy), and Martha Disney (Scott). Adored Grandma of Jessica, Allison, Nathan, Michael, Emily, Christopher, Clayton, Rachel and Jaclyn, and great-Grandma of Boden, Mila and Campbell. Marian was a proud Mom, Grandma and great-Grandma and was always keen to hear everyone’s stories and exploits. She cherished all the time she spent with each one of us.

She was terrific and we will all miss her!

The family would like to thank Amica and their wonderful assisted living team. A big thank you to Dr. Tancio, Dr. Andrew and the palliative care team, for the care and support they provided these last few weeks – all of the special people at Amica have made this difficult time much easier.

A memorial service will be conducted at WESTVIEW FUNERAL CHAPEL, 709 Wonderland Road North, London on Wednesday, October 2^nd, 2019 at 2:00 p.m., with visitation one hour prior.

Those wishing to make a donation in Marian’s memory are asked to consider the London Regional Cancer Program – Cancer Research Laboratory Program or Knox Presbyterian Church in Bayfield.

Leave a tribute for Marian Kelly

Leave a tribute

To the Kelly Family: As I think of your mom, Marian and your dad, Ed, a smile crosses my face. They were two very special people and were especially supportive during my ministry at Knox, Bayfield. Marian always amazed me at all that she accomplished despite the difficulties she had with her sight. Their love and friendship as a couple was to be greatly admired. Know that I am thinking of you all at this time.

~ Susan Moore

Dear Martha, James, Doug and families: On behalf of the congregation at Knox Bayfield I wish to extend our heartfelt sympathy on hearing of Marian's passing. The write up about your Mother was beautifully written and I can definitely confirm how important both Marian and Ed were at Knox Bayfield. We were so blessed to have them as part of our congregation. Marian was active on just about every committee in the church except being an Elder (she left that to Ed). We have so many memories and will always cherish them. We are keeping everyone in our thoughts and prayers as you mourn this great loss to your family. In sympathy, Brenda McLean On behalf of Knox Presbyterian Church, Bayfield

~ Knox Presbyterian Church, Bayfield

To Marian's loving family, I send you my very deep sympathy and prayers. There is no doubt that Marian was a very special lady; respected by all and loved by many. Your Mom and Dad were our good friends, dating back to the Riverdale days in Cornwall and John and I were fortunate to be able to continue seeing them during their winters in Destin. Ahh - those great lunches - not to be forgotten. You were so loved by Marian. May your many memories comfort and gladden your hearts. Nancy

~ Nancy Taylor

On behalf of my Mother Kay and myself we are thinking of and revisiting the lovely times we both spent with Marian at Amica London. Mom appreciated their visits and Marian's kindness as a neighbour and meal mate and I spent many moments with her learning about her interesting life with Ed when I was visiting. Mom lives in the Amica in Ottawa and still speaks of the kind staff and residents in London. May the love and memories of your Mother/Grandmother be of comfort to you now and in the days/months ahead. Kay McKeeman and Ann McKeeman Marcotte

~ Ann McKeeman Marcotte

To the Kelly family I am so sad that you have lost your very dear Mother. I met Marian at the very first meeting of our Book Club in Bayfield. What a delight to hear her thoughts about our books. Always insightful and often funny. I also played croquet with her. On the courts Marian was a great partner and ad formiable opponent. Marian and Ed were wonderful together. What an interesting and lovely life they led. I shall always remember Marian with a smile. It was a pleasure and privilege to have known her. May your many wonderful memories of your Mother bring you comfort. Sincerely, Pat Langley

~ Pat Langley

(Donated to Knox Presbyterian Church in Bayfield)

~ toni kemp richard wright