Kathleen M. Kelley

Kathleen M. Kelley of Allston, MA passed away peacefully on February 20, 2024. Beloved daughter of the late Lorraine M. (Gibbons) Kelley. Devoted sister of Kimberly Kelley Benzan and her husband John of Wellesley, Grace E. Kelley of Wellesley, William J.S. Kelley and his wife Laurie of CT, and the late Paul G. Kelley, and Maureen G. Kelley. Devoted aunt of Patrick J. and Katharine K. Benzan, Shannon M., Kaleigh M., and Sean P. Kelley.

Kathleen passed away peacefully at home with her family by her side after a battle with brain cancer. Her family was honored to care for her during her illness to reciprocate the nurturing loving care she tirelessly provided to them over their lifetimes.

Kathleen was a deeply devoted sister and true best friend to her siblings. Kathleen cherished her nieces and nephews, finding joy in their company and shared hobbies (sports, politics, travel, and investing) and taking pride in their accomplishments. She was a fixture at their youth, high school, and college basketball games. Her presence will be deeply missed by her family and countless friends whose lives she touched with her sense of humor, selflessness, and unwavering support.

Kathleen was a 1980 graduate of Rowan University and later earned a master's degree in health care administration. Kathleen worked as a research grant administrator for Harvard University for twenty-five years. Kathleen was an avid reader of the New York Times and Wall Street Journal and books about finance and politics. She swam daily at Harvard University or the YMCA. Kathleen enjoyed golfing and was at one time the Newton Commonwealth Golf Course Club Champion. Kathleen walked daily and could be found most afternoons walking her sister Kim’s dogs at Morses Pond in Wellesley.

Kathleen’s legacy of love, loyalty, and compassion will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Visiting in the Lehman, Reen, McNamara Funeral Home, 63 Chestnut Hill Ave., Brighton on March 23rd from 10:00am to 11:00 am. Followed by a Celebration of Life Service at 11:00am. Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend. Interment Private.

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