David M. Kelly

David M. Kelly, 71 of Stoneham passed away peacefully on September 7 with his loving family by his side. He was born and raised in Stoneham and lived there his entire life. David was the son of the late Linda J Kelly, to whom he dedicated a large portion of his adult life to her care. David would often be seen in many local spots around town with “his wife” (mom). After her death, he still frequently visited these restaurants.

David graduated from UMass Amherst and worked for many years at Verizon until he was forced to retire for health reasons. Not one to sit idle, he then decided to pursue a law degree and ultimately passed the Bar Exam. He then volunteered his time and provided legal assistance to members of the AIDS Action Committee. David was a long time AIDS survivor, having lived with the virus for well over 40 years.

David was perhaps best known for his wit and dry sense of humor. He would zing you with his comments whether he knew you for years, or he just met you. Even if you only met him once, you would never forget him. Family was the most important thing for David. He always looked forward to the annual trip to Foxwood with his mom and siblings. After his mom’s death, he was the glue that held the family together. Family gatherings were energetic and loud – just ask the guests that were near them when the get togethers were in public!

David was the brother of Joan Barry of Florida, Mary Ann Berube of Peabody, Henry Kelly and his wife Marcia of Texas, Tom Kelly and his wife Beverly of Florida/Maine , Paula Georgette and her husband Robert of Burlington, Kathy DiCarlo and her husband Robert of Carver, and Bobby and his wife Marianne of Florida. He was also “Uncle Dave” to numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his mother, Linda Kelly, brothers John, Joseph and Dennis and sister Peggy Gleason in addition to his father John Kelly. David was also predeceased by his very dear friend Pattie Heenan.

Family and friends are kindly invited to gather and share memories with his family on Wednesday September 11th, 2024 in the Barile Family Funeral Home 482 Main St. (RT28) STONEHAM from 11 am to 12 pm followed by a Funeral Service Celebrating David's Eternal Life at 12 pm. Parking attendants and elevator available.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations in memory of David to MGH Infectious Disease at https://www.massgeneral.org/medicine/infectious-diseases