Richard Victor Kelley

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Richard Kelley in the early hours of December 2, 2024 at the General Hospital.

Richard Victor Kelley, Esquire: poet, storyteller, brave mental health advocate, and Santa Claus.

Richard was predeceased by his father Douglas, brother David and brother-in-law Tom. 

He will be sorely missed by his Mom – Hazel (his biggest advocate), his brother Keith (Danielle), sister Debbie (Leonard), his nieces and nephew (and their children), his cat Victor, and his best friend of many years Michael O’Donnell.

Richard’s faith carried him through both good and bad patches alike - he was devoted to the parishes of All Saints Sandy Hill and St. Margaret’s Vanier.

Special thanks go out to the staff at Daybreak Housing, The Royal Ottawa Hospital and the General Hospital for showing the compassion and care Richard deserved.

A celebration of life will be held in the Spring.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Daybreak Housing and/or the Royal Ottawa Foundation for Mental Health.