Louis O Kelley

Louis “Lou” O’Dell Kelley, 89, of Stevensville, Maryland, passed away peacefully at home on September 21, 2025, with his devoted daughter by his side. Lou will be remembered for his friendly, outgoing nature and the joy he found in making others smile. He had an endearing sense of humor, a quick wit, and a good-natured spirit that drew people to him. He was rarely still, always keeping busy, except when cheering on the Orioles or Ravens. Lou loved being outdoors and especially loved the water. Even after his boating days were behind him, he continued to find peace in watching the boats move in and out of the creek in front of his home. A proud native of Stevensville, Lou dedicated himself to his community from a young age, serving with the Kent Island Fire Department. At just 16, in a story family and friends still laugh about, he famously rode his bicycle onto the not-yet-open Chesapeake Bay Bridge, only to be escorted off by police. Perhaps it was fate, because he went on to devote 39 years of his life to the Bay Bridge as a State of Maryland employee, rising through the ranks from Bridge Guard to Sergeant, Lieutenant, and ultimately Head Administrator, before retiring. Lou also enjoyed hunting, fishing, and crabbing, all of which kept him connected to the Bay he loved. His hardworking hands and adventurous spirit were matched by his devotion to family. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 69 years, Gloria Kelley; his parents, Louis and Marie Kelley; his sisters, Thelma Clark and Connie Hurley; and his nephew, David Kelley (Claire). Lou is survived by his daughter, LuAnn Walker, and son-in-law, John Walker; granddaughter, Kristin Bennett (Lewis); grandson, Kyle Walker; great-grandchildren, Parker, Wade, Walter, Logan, and Willow; and was “Uncle Lou” to many cherished nieces and nephews. To all who knew him, Lou will be remembered as a man who loved deeply, laughed often, and lived fully. Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 25, 2025, from 5–7 p.m. at Fellows, Helfenbein, and Newnam Funeral Home, 106 Shamrock Rd, Chester, MD 21619. Funeral services will follow on Friday, September 26, 2025, at 10 a.m. at the same location. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Compass Regional Hospice in Lou’s memory.

Louis O Kelley

September 10, 1936 - September 21, 2025