Dorothy Ann Kellam

Dorothy Ann (Dempsey) Kellam, 85, of Augusta, MI. Surrounded by love and family, Dorothy peacefully entered into the presence of the Lord on November 3, 2025. Dorothy was born November 1, 1940 in Hillsdale, Michigan, the daughter of Ray and Thelma (Burkhart) Dempsey. She was a 1958 graduate of Hillsdale High School. In 1962, Dorothy married her sweetheart, Gale Kellam of Jonesville. Their loving marriage recently celebrated 63 years.

Dorothy was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend who was loved by all who knew her. She is survived by her husband, Gale; 2 sons, Todd (Jodie), Tim (Lisa); 3 grandchildren, Ben (Heather), Tyler (Sidney), Emma Drum (Wyatt); 2 great granddaughters, Everly and Parker; and her sister, Nancy Biggs. She is preceded in death by her parents, her sister Kathleen Reynolds and brother Tim Dempsey.

Early on, Dorothy worked as an operator for the Augusta Telephone Co. before becoming a lead elementary secretary at Galesburg-Augusta Schools for 29 years. After retirement, Dorothy was able to devote more time to enjoying her grandchildren. She loved a good road trip and entertaining with friends. Her gardens were beautiful and full of hundreds of hummingbirds. Dorothy delighted in relaxing on her swing with her favorite libation and singing Irish jigs by the up-north cabin campfire. St. Patrick’s Day was her favorite ~ she celebrated being Irish every day!

Dorothy’s most important treasures in life were her faith, her family, her many friends, and her love of home. She was a devoted member of the St. Ann’s Catholic Church for over 50 years. Her passion for cooking, canning, baking (the very best cakes, pies and soda breads), entertaining, sewing, knitting and painting all gave her great joy. Dorothy’s hands and generous heart have created so much beauty!

Dorothy will forever be fondly remembered as the co-creator of the much loved ‘Pumpkin Lane’. Together with Gale, their whimsical displays turned their backyard into a seasonally fun, fall destination. Dorothy’s artistic talent and creative imagination were admired by thousands of families and school children for over 2 decades.

In harmony with the family's wishes, memorial donations can be made in Dorothy’s honor. Respectfully consider supporting Saint Ann Catholic Church of Augusta, MI or Centrica Care Navigators Hospice of Kalamazoo, MI, where she received the absolute best care we could have ever wished for.

…And until we meet again, May God hold you in the palm of His hand.

Friends are invited to join in Dorothy’s Celebration of Life where there will be many memories shared. On Tuesday, November 18, 2025 at the Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Cremation Preneed Care, Richland Chapel, the Rosary will be recited at 4:30 p.m. and a visitation will follow from 5:00-7:00 pm.  A Memorial Mass will be celebrated 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, November 19, 2025 at the St. Ann Catholic Church with a luncheon to follow in the church social hall. A private family interment will take place at Fort Custer National Cemetery.