Edwin Kelly

Edwin Leo "Eddie" Kelly, 70, a proud and deeply rooted son of northern Harford County, passed away peacefully at his daughter's home in Bel Air on June 25, 2025. A self-described "old hippie," Eddie was a free spirit whose legacy is reflected in the many local churches, firehalls, homes and other structures he built with skills passed down by generations of Irish craftsmen.

Born February 8, 1955, to Martin Francis and Grace Irene Kelly, Eddie was the second eldest of their nine children. He leaves behind his wife of 51 years, Dolores Kelly, and their two children: John (wife Jennifer) and Marissa (wife Kimberly). He is also survived by six siblings: Joe, Nancy, David, Donald, Bill, and Steve. Eddie was predeceased by his parents and sisters, Kathy and Mary, whose 1988 murder cast a long shadow over his life.

Eddie spent his childhood on his grandparents' farm in Whiteford, one of the last places he visited before he died. A gifted athlete, he played defensive end for Bel Air High School and the semi-pro for the Harford Rhinos. Throughout his life, he never strayed far from the Harford County fields, forests, streams and rivers he hiked, hunted and fished, just like generations of his family dating back to before the American Revolution.

His work life also centered on the community he loved. Eddie built his own brick and stone masonry business in the North Harford area and was known for his stonework craftsmanship. Integrating native fieldstone and unique ancient Irish designs and techniques, he created elegant stone facades, fireplaces, chimneys and other structures that truly reflect Harford County's history and character.

Eddie was tall, physically imposing, and he prided himself on his strength and independence. Though sickness robbed him of both in his later years, he never lost his youthful spark. Even frail and physically wasting away, his eyes still told the story of a long-haired teenager twisting his motorcycle's throttle wide open and racing at breakneck speed down the 165 straightaway-wild, free and very much at home. While we will miss him, we find peace knowing that Eddie's restless spirit is once again free.

A memorial mass will be held July 19, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church, 1021 St. Mary's Road, Pylesville, Maryland 21132. Church doors open at 10:00 a.m. for remembrance and reflection. A reception will follow.