William Howard Kelly II, “Bill”, beloved husband of the late Beatriz F. Kelly, “Bea”, and father, passed away peacefully, at the age of 85, on August 27, 2023, at The Porches Assisted Living Community in Gaylord, Michigan.
He was born on November 13, 1937, to William “Howard,” and Dorothy B. (Suggs) Kelly, in Bay City, Michigan.
Bill grew up in Johannesburg, Michigan, where he spent his time working in the family’s general store. In 1968, after serving in the Army overseas, Bill and Bea returned with their children to northern Michigan settling in Gaylord.
Bill was known throughout the community of Gaylord for his charitable works with the Fraternal Order of Eagles, Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, and the Ancient Order of Hibernians. He was commonly known as “Uncle Bill” to those who were lucky enough to know him. Bill enjoyed hunting and riding his BMW motorcycles.
He is survived by his beloved children, Suzen Marie Gaefe, William Troy Kelly, Catherine Ann Kelly, and Barbara Jean Pyrett; his brother, Richard J. Kelly; six grandchildren, whom he cherished very much; and many fond nieces and nephews.
Bill is preceded in death by his parents; and youngest brother, Terry Kelly.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, September 8, 2023, at St. Mary Cathedral, located at 606 N Ohio Ave, Gaylord, Michigan at 2:00 p.m. with visitation beginning at 12:00 p.m. The mass can be viewed live, online at https://www.stmarycathedral.org/.
The family has asked that in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Toys for Tots Otsego County Campaign.
Arrangements were entrusted to Nelson’s Funeral Home and Cremation Services located at 135 N Center Ave., Gaylord, Michigan 49735.
12 comments on “William H. Kelly, II”
Sending Prayers and condolences to Sue, Troy, Kathy, Barbie, RJ and all of your families.
Our deepest sympathies to Troy and the entire Kelly family. Our prayers are with you in this difficult time.
Coreen & Kevin Kerr
Troy our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Dan and Jamie
Prayers for Bill (and Bea) , and the family. They were their next door neighbors for years, the kindest people and friends. We will certainly miss him. Our prayers are with the family. Let us know if we can help.
Joe, Andrea, Darlene, Sheri, Mary
My sincere condolences to the Kelly family.
It was a true blessing to have your mom and dad in my life. My dad, Oney Garcia, is your moms brother, we loved them very much. Your parents were always very loving and caring. My love and blessings are with you. 🙏
Gina Garcia – Beck
Deepest Sympathies to the family.
The Vinicki Family
Bea and family I am so sorry for your loss. May the Lord bless and keep all of you in the Palm of his Hand.
Lois Grisso Forte
Rest in Peace my old friend.
The St. Mary Bereavement Ministry folks offer our sincere condolences to the Kelly family. Bea was one of our dearest friends, and we enjoyed visiting and “taking care of” Bill at the Porches as we promised her we would. Feeling peace that those two are now together.
Rip Bill. You were such a wonderful person to everyone that came into your life. My condolences to Barb and the boys. You will be missed
Vicki Pyrett
My condolence to all family and friends may you R.I.P Uncle Bill you were a wonderful person.
My condolence to the family, R.E.S.T. uncle Bill.