Susan Rae Bell Kelley

Cumberland, MD-
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Susan Rae Bell Kelley, a devoted mother, sister, aunt, and friend. A remarkable woman of strength and grace, she left us peacefully on November 2, 2025.
Susan was born on August 8, 1941, in Cumberland, Maryland and her parents were Mary Gordon "Gordie" and Louis "Lou" Bell. She married Joseph "Joe" Kelley. Susan lived her life with an unshakable will and an unrelenting sense of purpose. She was proud, dignified, and steadfast in her values-a woman of class with a strong moral compass who faced life's challenges head-on. Her family was her greatest source of pride and joy, and her support for them was constant, fierce, and unconditional. She was their biggest champion, always encouraging them to pursue their dreams and never compromise their integrity. She always put them first and never once turned her back on them.
She was a graduate of Allegany High School, Class of 1959. Susan worked at Bauer Home Center and retired from WMHS working as a secretary in the Emergency Department at Memorial and Sacred Heart Hospitals before retiring. She also worked for Dr. Arrisueno for a couple of years after retirement.
Susan also had a zest for life and an appreciation for its finer moments. She loved any sport and could light up any room with her laughter and competitive spirit. Whether enjoying a night at the casino, watching her golf, or just having a drink with friends and family, she brought energy, charm, and style wherever she went.
Susan had an enormous heart for animals-especially those in need. She took in several cats in need of a good home and cared for them well. Katrina, Mama Cat, Del, and Crazy will be forever grateful.
A fighter to the end, Susan met every obstacle with grace, courage, and determination. Her strength was matched only by her love and her legacy will live on in the countless lives she touched-both human and animal alike.
Susan is survived by her loving children, Krista Kelley and wife Jackie Lalonde, and her son and caregiver, Jimmy; brother, James "Gus" Bell and Sherri Atkinson; loving sister and caretaker, Cheri Morton; sister-in-law, Mary Lou Dawson and husband Raymond and family Karen, Brian, and Steve; nieces Jennifer and Joey Gibbs and their son Carter, and Katie and Elijah Stair and their son Grayson; and many dear friends.
Susan had a strong and loving group of caregivers that we would like to thank: Debbie Welsh, Jennifer Boling, Gali Harvey, Patricia Pettit, Cynthia B., Sarah Stratton, Angela Bartlett, Julie Mills, Michelle Peters, and Jessica Blizzard -- a special call out to Jessica Blizzard. Mother developed a strong bond and kinship to Jessica and considered her part of the family. We would also like to thank her hospice nurse Areeon who was there day and night if needed.
A Celebration of Life will take place in the Spring of 2026.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks for donations be made to the Allegany County Animal Shelter (P.O. Box 566, Cumberland, MD 21501-0566), Shriners Hospital' Hospitals for Children (3551 N. Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19140), or your favorite charity.