Was surrounded by love as she passed away peacefully in Fergus of natural causes on June 13th, 2021. She was 98 years old.
Kelley was born on September 10, 1922 in Regina, Saskatchewan to Jay and Pauline (Collinski) Kelley. In her early twenties, Kelley left her home province and moved to Toronto. She worked in a munitions factory to help with the war effort. She met her future husband, Don, in Toronto after he returned from active duty overseas.
Kelley and Don were married on September 12, 1947. Afterwards, they moved to the south end of Guelph (Don’s hometown). They built their first home themselves on the No. 6 highway close to Arkell Road. Kelley appreciated the small town feel of Guelph compared to her city life in Toronto, although she still enjoyed drives to the country to find elderberries.
At one time, Kelley also worked at the Guelph Tribune. As she grew older, she devoted her time to providing childcare for her six grandchildren. Kelley was an active member of The Truth and could often be found reading the Bible late at night. In her spare time, Kelley enjoyed tin-crafting, gardening, and knitting. Kelley enjoyed the presence of people; you could expect to see her at any social gathering. Her pierogies will be fondly remembered; they were a dish that she learned to make from her Polish grandmother.
Kelley is survived by her daughter, Dr. Nita Lewis, as well as grandchildren Riesa Lewis (Jonathan Armstrong), Logan Lewis, Carl Brooks, Elana Lewis, Victoria Lewis, and Bradley Lewis. She is predeceased by her beloved husband, Donald Lewis, son Calvin “Cal” Lewis (Pat), sisters Dorothy Anderson, Irene Lewis, Jean Rose, and Ruth Kelley.
Due to the pandemic, a funeral service will not be held. The family will plan a memorial gathering at a later date when travel restrictions are lifted. Arrangements entrusted to the WALL-CUSTANCE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL 519-822-0051 / www.wallcustance.com.
The family extends their heartfelt appreciation to the staff of the Wellington Terrace Long Term Care Home, who treated Kelley as if she were a member of their own family for the nine years that she was in their care.
A tree will be planted in memory of Gladys (Kelley) Lewis in the Wall-Custance Memorial Forest.