EUGENE PAUL KELLEY

KELLEY, Eugene Paul Of Martha's Vineyard, formerly of Milton, MA passed away peacefully at home, on July 10, 2024, at the age of 85, surrounded by his loving family. Gene was raised in Dorchester and was an alumnus of Babson College. He worked in the construction industry for 48 years, initially at Solimando Construction and later as the president of Boston Building and Bridge Corporation in Milton, MA. Gene ventured into the restaurant business in 1976 in partnership with family members with the purchase of Durgin-Park restaurant. He served as president for 31 years. The focus of his life was his beloved, "Chetta." He devoted himself to her entirely during the 62 years they were married. An astute businessman and consummate role model for all of his children and extended family, Gene had boundless energy and drive managing his construction business during the week then leaping into the fray of the chaotic Durgin-Park kitchen during the Saturday night rush. He recognized the significance of the restaurant's history and ensured that Durgin-Park preserved its well-loved offerings, décor and distinctiveness. He was dapper and stylish, immaculately turned out in his Borselinos. He was mischievous and fun and lived life out-of-the box and to the fullest. He travelled extensively with his family and as a member of the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company of MA. He was full of personality and humanity and easily found common ground with everyone. He loved to tell stories and to the delight of his listeners, he infused them with expression and humor. For decades he lived summers on Martha's Vineyard, where he dug for clams and masterfully dished up his catch-heaping plates of spaghetti with clam sauce and stuffed quahogs to his guests. Beloved son of Martin Kelley, Sr. and Helen (Blondon) Kelley of Dorchester, MA; and brother, Martin E. Kelley, Jr. of Squantum all, whom predeceased him; and Kevin Kelley (Maria) of Norwell. Devoted husband of Chetta Kelley of Martha's Vineyard; extraordinary father of Seana Kelley (Barry Patterson) of Milton, Eugene P. Kelley, Jr. (Meg Hannigan) of Canton, Heather Carr (Michael) of Hanover and Jonathan Kelley (predeceased) of Milton. Father-in-law of Jackie Kelley. Loving grandfather of Sophie and Rachael Chase, Alexandra, Geno, Justin, Mary and Emily Kelley and Madeline and Michael Carr; and great-grandfather to Isla, Charlotte and Nora Kelley. He also leaves behind his brother-in-law and partner, Michael Solimando (Robin) of Marshfield; and many beloved nieces and nephews of the Cashman, Solimando and Kelley families; and his wonderful caregiver, Rebecca Hall. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in Saint Agatha Church, 432 Adams Street, Milton, Thursday, July 18, at 10:30 am. Relatives and friends invited. Visiting Hours at Dolan Funeral Home, 460 Granite Avenue, EAST MILTON SQUARE, Wednesday, 4-7 PM. Interment Milton Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Wounded Warriors Family Support Initiative https://wwfs.org/donate/ To send the Kelley family a condolence message, please visit www.dolanfuneral.com