Charles Kellman

Charles Anthony Kellman, affectionately known to many as "Pops," passed away on Friday, January 9, 2026. He was born on November 18, 1946, in Berbice, Guyana, and was the eldest child of the late Evelyn Thomas and Ivin Kellman.
Charles received his early education in Guyana and was a proud graduate of Tutorial High School. A passionate believer in education, he began his professional life as a teacher at St. Mary's Roman Catholic School in Guyana, where he taught Mathematics and English. His dedication to teaching and shaping young minds reflected his lifelong commitment to learning and personal growth.
After his years in education, Charles transitioned to work at the Guyana Electricity Corporation before eventually relocating to the United States. Upon settling in New Haven, Connecticut, he continued his pursuit of knowledge by attending Gateway Community College (then known as South Central Community College). He later began working at Yale-New Haven Hospital, where he remained until 2006, when he selflessly left his career to care full-time for his beloved mother.
Charles was an avid learner who prioritized education not only for himself but also for his family. He could often be found reading, studying, and seeking new knowledge. He was a deeply selfless and giving man, always ensuring that his family was cared for and placed above all else.
A loving son, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin, and husband, Charles' greatest devotion was to his late mother, Evelyn Thomas. She meant everything to him, and he lovingly cared for her until her passing on April 22, 2018. Charles was deeply devoted to his family and a small circle of close friends. He took immense pride in the achievements and milestones of his children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.
Charles was also a passionate sports enthusiast. He loved soccer, tennis, boxing, and especially horse racing, spending many weekends at Sports Haven in New Haven. He had a great love for food, laughter, and conversation. Whether enjoying a meal, cooking one of his favorite dishes-often featuring fish-or sharing stories, Charles found joy in simple moments. He also loved walking and staying active, never content to remain in one place for too long.
Charles was the proud father of six children: Carmi, Ori, Wayne, Marcel, Sean, and Seon. He was first married to Irmin Benjamin, who predeceased him, and later married Donette Hodge, who survives him.
He was predeceased by his parents, Evelyn Thomas and Ivin Kellman; son, Carmi Kellman; and aunt, Shirley P. Mercurius.
Charles leaves to cherish his love and memories, his wife, Donette Hodge; children, Ori Kellman of Connecticut, Wayne Kellman (Lisa) of Connecticut, Marcel Kellman (Alfred, Sr.) of Georgia, Sean Kellman of Connecticut, and Seon Kellman of Antigua and Barbuda; stepchildren, Alessa Hodge and Alicia Benjamin; sisters, Yvonne Franco and Maureen Kellman; 19 grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Charles Anthony Kellman will be remembered for his devotion to family, his love of learning, his generosity of spirit, and the quiet strength with which he lived his life. His legacy lives on through the many lives he touched and the family he loved so deeply.