Howard Atwood Kelly IV

1947 - 2025

Howard Kelly, 77, passed away peacefully on October 28, 2025. Raised in Harford County, he later made his home in Rock Hall and Fairlee-places that perfectly suited his love of the water.

After graduating from Gilman School and attending University of Maine and the Art Institute of Pittsburgh, Howard owned and operated a marina on Harrington Creek, where he spent his days working on boats and tackling projects. In the 70's he was the Commodore of the Rock Hall Yacht Club. He had a boundless curiosity and a passion for learning, reflected in the shelves of books that filled his home on every subject imaginable.

Howard will be remembered for his many talents and abilities and his strong independent spirit. He is survived by his sisters, Betsy Mitchell of Falls Church, VA, and Susanne Kelly of Fairlee, MD, a half brother Woollcott Kelly of Palm Bay, FL, also by his "bud," Molly Thompson Brantley of Marriottsville, MD, former partner Inez Thompson, former caregiver Joy Mayfield, and his nieces, nephews, and their families.

Donations in his memory may be made to the Chesapeake Bay Foundation. An informal gathering to celebrate his life will be held in late December.