Ronald J. Kelly

Ronald J. Kelly, 86, of Rumford, RI and Cape Cod, MA passed away peacefully on Tuesday, August 15th, 2023 at Rhode Island Hospital after a brief illness. He was the beloved husband of Barbara (Geary) Kelly. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children, Kathleen Taraian and her husband Peter, Martha Walker and her husband Jon, Karen Kane and her husband Patrick, and Jennifer Kelly and her husband Carl Magill. He is also survived by his brothers, Paul and Edward Kelly, and leaves behind ten grandchildren: Peter, Sam, Harrison, John, Lindsey, Haley, Mackenzie, Jackson, Kyllie and Jordyn; and three great-grandchildren: Erika, Callan and Madison.

Born in Pawtucket, RI, he was the son of the late Edward and Mary (Blake) Kelly. A proud graduate of St. Ray’s Academy ’54 and Providence College ’59, he enjoyed a successful career as the long-time principal of Western Hills Junior High School and later Dean of Discipline at Providence College. As principal of Western Hills, he was named Rhode Island Principal of the Year in 1985 by the National Association of Secondary School Principals, when he represented the State of Rhode Island as one of the nation’s 51 outstanding educators.

He was a long-time member of Pawtucket Country Club, where he shared many laughs and good times with some of his closest friends. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus Delaney Council, a member of the National Guard, a member of the Benefit Street Pub card league, a member of the Hyannis Yacht Club, and a devoted PC Friars and Boston Red Sox fan. He loved travelling with his wife Barbara, especially their trips to Ireland and Europe, and summering on the Cape every year.

Ron will be sadly missed by all who knew him, especially by his family and friends. He brightened every room he entered with a million-dollar smile, an infectious laugh, and quick-witted humor. Everyone he met was considered a “good friend”.

Funeral services will begin on Saturday, August 19th at 10:00 AM from the Costigan-O’Neill Funeral Home located at 220 Cottage Street, Pawtucket, RI followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 AM at Saint Teresa’s Church located at 358 Newport Avenue, Pawtucket, RI. The burial will follow at Mount Saint Mary’s Cemetery in Pawtucket, RI.

Visiting hours for family and friends will be held at the Costigan-O’Neill Funeral Home on Friday August 18, 2023 from 4:00-7:00 PM.