Dorothy M. Kelley

Dorothy M. Kelley of Halifax passed away suddenly on July 20, 2015, after several days’ illness at the Halifax Infirmary, QEII Health Sciences Centre.

Born in 1916 in Edmonton, Alberta, she was the daughter of the late Frank M. and Edna M. (Nickerson) Johnson. She moved with the family to New Glasgow at age three where her father became a partner with Russell MacLean (her uncle) in the firm MacLean, Johnson & Williams Limited. After graduation from New Glasgow High School, she attended Acadia University graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in Home Economics. Before her marriage she worked at Victoria General Hospital in Halifax as a dietitian.

She received a 50 year pin from Sir Sanford Flemming Chapter IODE as a long time member and officer. She was an executive member of the provincial chapter of Nova Scotia IODE and served in the positions of Treasurer and Vice-President at different times. She enjoyed traveling the province and made many friendships with other members. At one time she was an active member of St. Andrews United Church women’s unit. She received a certificate of merit from Canadian Red Cross Society for participating as a longtime volunteer with their blood services telerecruiting program. She was a supporter of the Liberal Party of Nova Scotia and assisted Ron Wallace MLA along with her sister-in-law, Alice (Kelley) Croft in various election campaigns.

She was the oldest living member at the time of her death of St. Andrew’s United Church. She was keenly interested in her many cousins and their families. She was consider by many to be the family matriarch.

She is survived by her son, R. Robert Kelley and daughter, Joan E. (Gary) Greene, Halifax. She was predeceased by her husband, Ralph M. Kelley and brothers, T. Harold and Frank M. Johnson; special first cousin (adopted sister) Jean (Nickerson) Cavanaugh. Also surviving are 3 grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, 4 nieces, seven grandnieces and six grandnephews.

In keeping with her wishes, a private family graveside service will be held Saturday, July 25 at Fairview Cemetery. The family wishes to express their thanks to Drs. Victoria Mitchell and Mark Stender as well as Rev. Dale Chisholm and Betty Anderson for many years of support. Other special friends, Rhonda, Sherry, Ted, and Helen are appreciated by the family. Donations in her memory may be made to Dalhousie Medical Research Foundation.