Obituaries

Howard Baker Kelley

Aug 20th, 2026

Howard B. Kelly of South Yarmouth passed away peacefully at the age of 79 following a courageous battle with acute myeloid leukemia. 
 
Howard was born July 13, 1947, at Cape Cod Hospital to Andrew Bell and Marjorie Baker Kelly of South Yarmouth. A proud native Cape Codder he graduated from DY in 1965 and Northeastern University in 1969. After passing his CPA license on the first try, Howard began his long career as an accountant at Sherman, Kelly & Associates. He enjoyed helping his many clients grow their businesses and the many stories and relationships he grew along the way.
 
Howard was a dedicated member of the Harwich Dennis Rotary Club, serving as the President from 1984-1985. He was the clubs long-serving treasurer and had 45 years of perfect attendance. One of his favorite events was the annual Clam Bake where he served as bake master” for many years.  He had many good times as a long-time North Beach camp owner in Chatham.
 
Howard found a passion for road racing, completing the Falmouth Road Race 15 times, along with many other local races. He was also a dedicated member of the Mid Cape Racquet Club, where he proudly wore out several StairMasters and Versaclimbers.
 
Howard is survived by his wife of 50 years, Jean Kelly; his son Andrew Kelly and his wife Erin Murray; daughter Shanna Kelly; and beloved granddaughters, Catherine and Maeve Kelly. He is also survived by his sister and brother-in-law, Betsy and Steve Shea; nephew Ross Kelly; niece Leigh Mason, great niece and nephew, Anna and Benjamin Mason; and in addition, his cousins Robert Angell and Joan Williams.
 
The family is deeply grateful to the oncology nurses and staff at the Davenport Mugar Cancer Center for their compassionate care and kindness.
 
A service will be held on Saturday, September 12th at 11 AM, with a visiting hour from 10-11 AM at Hallett Funeral Home, 273 Station Ave., South Yarmouth. Burial will be private. 
 
In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in memory of Howard B. Kelly to support cancer research and patient care at: Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, P.O. Box 849168, Boston, MA 02284 or via dana-farber.org/gift.

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