Cover photo for William "Bill" Kelly's Obituary
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William "Bill" Kelly

January 10, 1951 — July 6, 2025

William “Bill” Kelly, 74, of Lawrence, KS, passed away on July 6, 2025, leaving behind a legacy defined by dedication, quiet strength, and an unwavering love for his family and community. Bill was born January 10, 1951, in McCook, NE, the son of William L. and Barbara (Vesely) Kelly.

Bill began his career as a police officer, dedicated to upholding the law with fairness and compassion. He later transitioned into education, where he found his lifelong vocation as a teacher. In the classroom, he was a steady guide and mentor, impacting generations of students with his wisdom, patience, and belief in doing the right thing. For many years, he coached the girls drill team and basketball team at South Junior High School, as well as track at Lawrence High School. Even after retiring, Bill continued to serve as a substitute teacher. His commitment to youth and community reached far beyond education. Music was a lifelong passion for Bill and he proudly carried on his parents’ legacy at Plymouth Congregational Church, where his parents founded the bell choir program, directing both youth and adult choirs.

He is survived by his loving wife, Carolyn Kelly, and their three children: Cortney Kelly, William “Billy” (Kellian) Kelly, and Joseph “Joey” (Kaci) Kelly. He was a proud and devoted grandfather to Kennedy, Emersyn, Carlie, and Lincoln, who brought immense joy and pride to his later years. He is also survived by his sisters Kathy Scannell (Jeff), Mary Jo Shipley (Dan), Susan Bracciano (Mike), and honorary “brother”, Rod Rozanek (Teresa), along with many cherished family members. He was preceded in death by his parents and his infant sister, Karen.

Bill held many titles throughout his life—officer, teacher, coach, director, friend—but the one he was most proud of was “Pops,” lovingly given to him by his four grandchildren. They were the light of his life, and he embraced the role with every bit of his heart. Bill’s family meant everything to him. His quiet dry wit, steady presence, and deep sense of duty made him someone people leaned on—and someone they will miss deeply. His legacy lives on in the lives he shaped, the lessons he taught, and the love he gave so freely. He was the kind of father who showed up and the kind of grandfather who got down on the floor to play, asked questions that mattered, and listened like he had all the time in the world.

A visitation will be held at Warren McElwain on Saturday, July 19, 2025, from 2:00 ~ 4:00 PM, followed by a memorial service at 4:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Douglas County 4-H Foundation or the Tunnel to Towers foundation in memory of Bill’s lifelong commitment to service and community.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of William "Bill" Kelly, please visit our flower store.

Service Schedule

Past Services

Visitation

Saturday, July 19, 2025

2:00 - 4:00 pm (Central time)

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Warren-McElwain Mortuary & Cremation Services

120 W 13th St
Lawrence, KS 66044

Memorial Service

Saturday, July 19, 2025

Starts at 4:00 pm (Central time)

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Warren-McElwain Mortuary & Cremation Services

120 W 13th St
Lawrence, KS 66044

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