David Harvey Kelly

David was the beloved husband of Ruth Reilly Kelly and the late Gail Paradise Kelly. He is survived by his children, Jennifer Paradise (Dr. Lawrence Maayan) and Elizabeth Kelly (Dale Cawher) and his stepchildren, Robert Eberhardt, Thomas Eberhardt, Mary Eberhardt, and Sharon Eberhardt.

Proud Grandpa and Diddy of twelve grandchildren, several nieces and nephews, and his brother and sister-in-law, Michael and Natalie Reilly.

David was pre-deceased by his sister, Carol Hillis and his parents, Forrest Kelly and Carolyn McSherry.

David graduated from the University of Chicago and earned a PhD from Indianna University. He taught History for 40 years at D’Youville University. David loved teaching and was a “student first” professor. He received many awards during his career at D’Youville, but the one he treasured the most was the student generated award, “Faculty of the Year.”

Dave continued his academic life in Florida, teaching at the Osher Institute at Eckerd College in St. Petersburg. He also continued his intellectual pursuits, he just completed a book on the 19th century world of Charles Dickens.

David was a supporter of the arts in Buffalo and in St. Petersburg. He enjoyed classical music concerts and art museums. He is a patron of the Buffalo Philharmonic, The Florida Orchestra, St. Petersburg Opera, St. Petersburg Chamber Music Society, the Buffalo AKG Museum, the Buffalo Burchfield Penney Art Center, and the St. Petersburg Museum of Fine Arts.

David’s other passion was traveling. He traveled to China, Russia, Israel , all over Europe and particularly Ireland. He visited Ireland twelve times. David enjoyed showing Ireland to friends, family and most of all his students. At the time of his death, he was planning a trip to the Mediterranean.

David will be remembered for his warmth, generosity, and unwavering devotion to his family. His friends and loved ones cherished his sense of humor and caring nature.

A memorial service will be held at a later date to celebrate David’s life and legacy.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Please remember David Kelly by making a donation to your favorite cultural organization.