Doris T. Kelley

Doris Louise Tremblay Kelley, 96, of Willimantic, passed away peacefully in her home on October 4, 2025, surrounded by her four children and granddaughter who was also her nurse caring for her in her final days. Born on February 29, 1929, in Willimantic, she was the daughter of the late Delor and Mary Tremblay.

Doris was a beloved paraprofessional at Sweeney Elementary School. It was in her neighborhood and all four of her children attended prior to her employment. She began this career after raising her own family. Known for her kind and sweet nature, she was a quiet and elegant presence in the lives of all who knew her. She was always impeccably dressed and cherished every moment spent with her family, especially at celebratory gatherings.

In her retirement, Doris was a dedicated member of the "Sweeney Sweeties," a group of retired colleagues who met regularly for lunch. Their gatherings were a cherished time of reminiscence, shared laughter, and deep connection. She always looked forward to catching her friends up on the latest news of her children and, especially, the grandchildren she adored and spoke about with immense pride.

Doris was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Thomas James Kelley, who passed away in 2003. As well as her siblings Ernest, Alma, Roland, Francetta, Dorothy and Patricia. She leaves behind her loving children: Michael Kelley of Willimantic; Linda Naumec and her husband, Paul, of Hebron, and their children, Sarah, Joseph and Andrew; James Kelley and his wife, Rebecca, of Newcastle, Washington., Jennifer Phippen and her husband Oliver, of Ridgefield, and their children, Kelley and Dane.

A private family service will be held to honor her life. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Connecticut Hospice.

https://www.hospice.com/donate/