Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
About
David Kelly Obituary
He was Bristol Schools' Mentor of the Year 2014. Dave served on the board of directors CT Special Olympics, and volunteered at many events with the athletes - tennis being his favorite.
Dave served two terms as Chairman of the board at Hospital for Special Care, and was employed in finance at ESPN for 23 years, where he was the Team ESPN Volunteer of the Year in 2007. He also Co-Chaired the Enabled Group.
Dave will be remembered as a bright light and fierce advocate for people with disabilities to have equal access and inclusion.
He was predeceased by his brother Thomas & parents, Thomas and Lois (Bauchman) Kelly.
He leaves behind his loving wife, Paula Kelly, sister, Kathleen (Robert) Goehring, brother, Kevin Kelly Taylor, Joshua (Nicole & Baby Jay), Trevor Goehring & Emma Kelly Geremy, Scott (Catherine) Wallace. He was "Grampy Dave" to Benjamin & Christopher Wallace.
~No calling hours~
Funeral Mass will be At St. Gregory's Church, Bristol, 8/19/22 at 10:30 a.m.
Donations can be made to Special Olympics CT, David Kelly.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for David Kelly
6 Entries
Tom Caska
August 6, 2023
David was a stellar example of a man that didn´t let his disability slow him down. He was a fine example to us all.
Evelyn and Tom Caska
August 18, 2022
We offer our sincere condolences at Dave´s passing. In Heaven his spirit is walking up tall. His spirit will still live here on earth ever reminding those who knew and loved him most to never give up. He truly left a legacy of hope for us all. Our prayers and best wishes are with you Paula and family. Be gentle on your self as he would want. With love and hugs. Evelyn and Tom Caska
Rosa Gatti
August 18, 2022
David was an amazing earthly being who continually taught us about humanity and giving. I have many visual images of his volunteering at Team ESPN events like Special Olympics, Boys and Girls Club, and a variety of team builds. He was one of our Volunteers of the Year! A role model to us all!
I had the privilege of speaking with him in his final earthly days and he reminded me of a conversation on a return trip from an event. I had asked him why he volunteered. He replied, "Because I can." Wow!
David was not bound by a wheelchair. May we have learned from him and carry on his legacy. He no doubt has earned his angel spiritual wings and lives on! I will never forget him!
Tobie and Ric Racine
August 17, 2022
I am so sorry to hear about your loss. David is a very special person as Tobie was. They will be missed in so many ways. Life will never be the same without them but the memories they leave behind will live forever. The impact that lives with all of us will not only change our lives but generations to come. Let's look at the impact of what they have done to so many and think of the positive they have brought to so many lives in theirs. God bless. Please keep in touch.
William Schuch
August 11, 2022
I was fortunate to have had the opportunity to volunteer with Dave at the Hospital for Special Care for a number of years. He taught me much about how one should live in this life regardless of one's perceived limitations. He will be missed. Requiescat in Pace.
Showing 1 - 6 of 6 results
Make a Donation
in David Kelly's name
Please consider a donation as requested by the family.
Memorial Events
for David Kelly
How to support David's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor David Kelly's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
