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Charles Davidson Kelso

1928 - 2024

BORN

1928

DIED

2024

Charles Kelso Obituary

Charles Davidson Kelso

September 29, 1928 - January 31, 2024

Sacramento, California - Professor Charles Davidson Kelso, who was a law professor for a remarkable 66 years, passed away peacefully at age 95 on January 31, 2024, surrounded by his family and loved ones. Professor Kelso devoted his long professional career to legal education and, particularly, to the McGeorge School of Law, living on campus with his late wife, former Associate Dean Jane Kelso, and teaching at McGeorge for over forty years. McGeorge alumni frequently referred to Charles as "Papa Kelso" and referred to Jane as "Mama Kelso." After Jane's passing in 2007, Charles was lucky enough to find his second love, Mary Reed, who became his long-time companion. Charles and Jane, and then Charles and Mary, would be seen regularly at all Sacramento-area theater and musical events as subscribers to the Sacramento Philharmonic, Sacramento Opera, Sacramento Ballet, the Music Circus and the B-Street Theater, among other groups. He is survived by Mary Reed, his four children, Kevin, Randall, Paige, and Clark, 11 grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Sacramento Bee on Mar. 20, 2024.

Memories and Condolences
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4 Entries

Eldon R Smith Jr

August 2, 2024

Charles and I were classmates in the New Albany, Indiana High School. We last corresponded in 1949. While he was teaching "law" as a way to be civil, I was ministering as an Air Force chaplain for 28 years. I have always considered "Chuck" as a true friend. I will be 97 years old this August. God has been good to both of us.

Susan Wilson

March 27, 2024

I am so sorry to read about Professor Kelso´s death. I had him for Contracts in law school. He was as much a fixture at the school as the iconic lamps from Scotland Yard were. My deepest sympathies to his family and friends.

Paul Richardson

March 20, 2024

What a wonderful man and teacher. My deep condolences to the entire Kelso family. With warm regards, Paul Richardson

John Mounier

March 20, 2024

A great presence representing fairness, education, and justice has passed.

My heart is with Kevin, Randall, Paige, Clark, and Mary.

John Mounier
San Francisco & Los Angeles

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