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Dolores Jean (Neff) Kelley
1932 - 2025
Dolores (Neff) Kelley Obituary
Dolores's early education took place in a one-room school on Franklin Blvd, sparking a lifelong love for learning. She later attended Galt High School and graduated from Union High in Sacramento in 1950. Dolores's career was characterized by her roles in various service positions, from working as a fountain waitress at Hale's Department Store to assisting the elderly in their homes. Her work at Richmaid Ice Cream and Restaurant, Campbell Soup Company, and Thornton Cannery highlighted her dedication and hardworking nature. She was PTA president, an elected official on the Galt Fire District, which lead to president of the Regional Fire Board. She was also served as president of the Galt Women's Club. She enjoyed giving back to her community.
Beyond her professional and volunteer life, Dolores was passionate about genealogy, tracing family histories back to the 1700s. She enjoyed traveling extensively with her husband James and friends, exploring Mexico, camping at various lakes, and meeting distant relatives. Dolores and James were also involved in real estate, buying and selling local properties, and they raised guinea pigs and calves, which brought them much joy.
Dolores's life was enriched by her extensive family. She is survived by her brothers Jack, Forrest, Bill, Bob, and Cecil Neff, and sister Margaret (Neff) Hanno; daughter Kathy (Randy) Kirchhof; grandchildren Tommy Kirchhof and Jennifer (Dan) Foster; and great-grandchildren Rustin, Coltin, Karter, Callie, and Savannah Kirchhof. She was preceded in death by her parents Rose Mae (Jones) and Joseph Thomas Neff, brother J.T. Neff, and grandson Randy Kirchhof.
A small, private funeral was held on September 3, 2025, at Cherokee Memorial Cemetery, where she was laid to rest next to her beloved husband, James O. Kelley, sharing 61 years of marriage.
Dolores's life was a testament to her loving nature and zest for adventure, leaving a legacy of cherished memories and enduring family bonds.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Dolores (Neff) Kelley
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Kathy Kirchhof
September 14, 2025
Miss you, Mom. Love you
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