Obituary of Eileen Kelly

Eileen Kelly of Pine Bush, NY, died peacefully on 12/18/2023. She was 85 years old.  Eileen was the wife of the late Benjamin G. Kelly, and mother to Ben (Butch-deceased. 1991), Carol (Sis), her husband Jerry, Ern, Charles (Buck), his wife Kathy,  Kevin, his wife Michele, Joyce, Lena , Brian and his wife, Jennifer. 

Eileen had 16 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild. 

Eileen was born in the Bronx, NY, to Anthony and Mary Cannata and  is predeceased by her brother, Anthony.  Although Eileen grew up in the city, she spent summers with her grandmother and extended family of cousins on a farm in Pine Bush.  She often recounted memories of happy times spent there. From her beloved grandmother, Eileen learned about cooking, baking, gardening, respecting all people and her devotion to family. 

As an adult, this devotion translated to her role as caregiver, and eventually step-mother, to the six eldest Kelly siblings, following the death of their mother, Jessie (Stage) in 1960. Eileen nurtured the relationship between the Stage and Kelly families, ensuring that they would remain connected.  Above all, Eileen valued family.  

In addition to raising a family, Eileen enjoyed a long and successful career, serving a community she loved. She was very active in local politics and served as the former assessor for the towns of Crawford, Goshen and Minisink. She was the only woman to hold the office of Supervisor for the Town of Crawford,  served as President of the Orange County Assessors Association, was a Board Member for the NYSAA and longtime IAO member. 

 To Eileen, there was no event or accomplishment too small to deserve a celebration. She loved a party, music and dancing.  Eileen had a remarkable zest for life, and did all things passionately. She'll be remembered for her unforgettable fashion, iconic shoes, delicious cooking, endless zeal for life, dedication to the town she loved so much, and for the care and laughter she brought to those fortunate enough to know her. 

The legacy of Eileen’s well lived life will be her enormous love and appreciation for all that life brings, and the many lives that were positively impacted because she touched them.  

A celebration of life will held on Saturday July 20, 2024 from 1-4pm at the William M. Gagan Funeral Home Inc. 1525 Burlingham Rd. Pine Bush NY. Arrangements entrusted to the William M. Gagan Funeral Home Inc.