MEREDITH — Richard “Kel” Kelly, 72, of Meredith, passed away on April 16, 2026, with family by his side.
Kel was born in Brooklyn, New York, on June 25, 1953, to Lawrence and Marie (Croke) Kelly. He retired after 36 years at New Hampshire Ball Bearings, Laconia.
Kel enjoyed taking rides in his Thunderbird with his grandson, spending time with family and friends, attending his grandchildren’s sporting events and spending late winters in Myrtle Beach. He was a sports enthusiast and an accomplished baseball player. In 1973 he was scouted by the Boston Red Sox but declined the offer and chose a family life instead. He was a passionate golfer and organized and managed over forty members each year to a “stay and play” outing in Sebago, Maine.
Kel is lovingly survived by his wife of 53 years, Marie Kelly; his daughter, Pauline (Kelly) Gianunzio and husband Peter; his son, Rick Kelly and wife Jen; and he was the “best Papa” to five grandchildren, Matthew Gianunzio, Faith Gianunzio, Grace Kelly, Andrew Kelly and Kate Kelly. He was predeceased by his parents, Marie (Croke) Kelly and Lawrence Kelly, and four siblings.
Family meant everything to him and he will be dearly missed.
Arrangements are under the care of Mayhew Funeral Homes and Crematorium. To sign the online book of memories, visit mayhewfuneralhomes.com.
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