George T. Kelley, 86, of Vero Beach, formerly of Paxton, MA and Burrillville, RI, died comfortably and peacefully, surrounded by his loving wife, Eileen, children, and friends on Sunday, August 6, at the Indian River Hospice Home in Vero Beach.

George was born October 9, 1930, in Framingham, MA, son of the late Leon and Agnes Kelley. He grew up in Wellesley, MA where he attended St. Sebastian High School. He earned his bachelor's degree at the College of the Holy Cross, Worcester, MA. He received his master's degree from Boston College and his doctorate from Clark University in Worcester, studying economics.

George was a longtime college professor, teaching economics at Worcester State University for more than 25 years. After he retired, he and Eileen lived in RI and then Florida, where they enjoyed many happy years together. Both were devoted to their faith and their families.

George and Eileen loved to sing and were members of the Gregorian Bishop's Choir, Providence, R.I., The Noteables and Silvertones in Vero Beach, and Church Choirs at both St. John of the Cross and St. Helen Catholic Church of Vero Beach. George had a wonderful devotion to the Divine Mercy. He was a Navigator of the Knights of Columbus, Chairman of the Finance Committee at St. John's, V.P. of the Lyons Club, and Treasurer of the Legion of Mary. He was involved with Christ Renews His Church men's group and St Helen prayer group at St. Helen Catholic Church. He was a Korean War Veteran, a member of the Southern Poverty Law Center and an activist for the poor and disenfranchised. He was most proud of the fact that he put five children through College.

Besides his wife, and two step sons, Aaron and Eric Kuchle, George leaves his daughter Megan Kelley of Newcastle, ME; his three sons, Gavin Kelley and his wife Donna of Andover, MA; Brian Kelley of Boylston, MA; and Justin Kelley and his wife Sharon of Northborough, MA; and his sister Marie Creedon of Milford, MA. He also leaves behind many loving grandchildren and nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his son Colin of Richmond, ME and his brothers Leon and John Kelley.

A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Helen Catholic Church, Thursday, August 10, 2017 at 2:00 pm with military honors and a reception to follow.

Interment will be at South Florida National Cemetery in Lake Worth, FL.