Mary Beth Kelly
June 13, 1913 - August 20, 2008
Obituary
Imagine 95 years! ‘Just think of it’ as Mary Beth would say. As we look back and think of Mary Beth, we can’t help but remember her delicate demeanor and strong spirit. She was not only a great beauty, but an accomplished artist.
Mary Beth and her sister Frances shared a special bond, were the best of friends, and lived with their dear mother and aunt Alice in the family home. She was a devout Catholic who attended Immaculate Conception, and graduated from Holy Names Academy. She was a long time parishioner of St James Cathedral, where she attended mass every Sunday with her sister.
Mary Beth enjoyed gatherings with friends and family, especially the hours spent at the Mahjong table. She loved simple things, a flower from the garden, tea and cookies, cards from friends, and the sound of Frances playing the piano.
Mary Beth Kelly was born on June 13, 1913 at Providence Hospital in Seattle. She died peacefully at home on August 20, 2008. Mary Beth was preceded in death by her parents, John and Elizabeth Kelly, her aunt Alice Fairbairn, and her brother John Kelly. She is survived by her sister Frances Kelly, two nieces, and three nephews. A rosary will be held at Bonny Watson funeral home on Capitol Hill at 7:30 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on August 27th, 2008 at 9:30 a.m. at St James Cathedral.
The Kelly family would like to thank Providence Hospice of Seattle for their support and care over the past several months. We would also like to thank the many devoted friends and neighbors who dropped by with flowers, food, and cards, and who visited with Mary Beth and Frances.
Special thanks to Mary Beth’s caregivers, Ana Barahona, and Josie Magalhaes, for their loving and devoted care.
Sorry to hear about Mary Beth. What a lovely picture of her in the paper. Our love and prayers are with you at this time.
Love Steve & Sharon
I am sorry to hear of Mary Beth’s death. She was a lovely gracious woman who always welcomed me into her home. Her art work is inspiring and I keep her Christmas card from year to year. Even into advanced age, Mary Beth and Frances’ home is full of art, music, hospitality and history.
My sympathy is with you, Frances.
Love,
Bea
P.S. What a cool picture!
Our memories of Mary Beth and the Kelly’s is fond and very deep! Our family tradition of Christmas at the Kelly’s is a dear memory of all of the Shannon’s. We loved her singing, art and special joy she brought to all of us. We loved the hot chocolate, cookies and all of the games. We enjoyed the love and joy she and all of the Kelly’s brought to us on every visit. My one regret is that my son’s did not have this special Christmas tradition that my brothers and sister’s all had and shared together. My son Jacob certainly liked playing Majhon with Mary Beth and Fran. We will miss her dearly! John, Amy, Jacob and Lucas Shannon
I was so sorry to hear of Mary Beth’s passing. She was a special woman with a sweet, caring spirit. I have such fond memories of many family Christmas visits to the Kelly home. We all sang Christmas Carols, played many games and were fed a delightful meal. The pictures we took every year are precious; especially now for the many memories that come back. Take care, Francis; my prayers are with you.
My thoughts are with Frances, who always seemed so strong and talented. Although I haven’t had a Seattle Christmas in many years, I join my brothers and sisters in remembering the wonderful visit to the Kelly’s. There were 4 of them then–Mary Beth and Francis were the very young ones. They were all so gracious and so talented. It is comforting to be able to rejoice in her next life when you know how much she deserves it. Sorry to miss the celebration of her life. Thank you all who are able to remember her in person. Love and prayers to Francis. Susie
Our Heart felt condolences
Mary Beth was a wonderful neighbor, as is Francis. We enjoyed many a fun mahjong game -each one was new and exciting. We will miss her and her kind spirit.
Diana, Chuck and Linda
I remember a most wonderful afternoon, when I and Eleanor took my grandmother’s Mahjong set to see Mary Beth and Frances. They tried to teach me the game, which was most fun; but I especially enjoyed the companionship of the Kelly sisters, their graciousness, and their deep affection for Eleanor. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Paula Crawley