Mary Donnelly

Mary Elizabeth Donnelly, affectionately known as Betty or Liz, age 81, of Easley, South Carolina, passed away peacefully on Friday, June 20, 2025.

Born in Belfast, Ireland, Mary was the cherished daughter of Philomena Morgan and Robert (Bobby) Donnelly. She spent her formative years in San Diego, California, where she met and married Thomas P. Kelley in 1966. In 1985, she relocated to New Jersey, and later made her home in Easley, South Carolina, in 1999.

Mary dedicated her professional life to her work as a paralegal, a career she approached with diligence and compassion. Even after retiring, she continued to stay active by volunteering, advocating for vulnerable children and animals, and lending her creativity and skill to home remodeling projects. She served for many years as a Guardian ad Litem in Pickens County, standing up for children in the court system, and brought warmth and kindness to the afterschool program at West End Elementary.

Mary was a devoted and loving mother to her three children, Stephanie Kelley, Jennifer Lewis (Alan), and Thomas Kelley, and a proud grandmother to Tommy and Madison Kelley. She is also survived by her brothers, James Donnelly and Nelson Clark; her sister, Carol Clark; sister-in-law Donna Branch; niece Layla Clark; grand-nieces Aisha and Aayah, and grand-nephew Theo.

She was preceded in death by her sisters, Ann Donnelly and Kelley O’Leal, and by her beloved dog, Charlie, her faithful companion and friend.

Mary wore many titles in her life: Mother, Sister, Grandmother (lovingly known as “Chocolate YaYa”), Aunt, Sister-in-law, and Friend, but it was the love, laughter, and strength she brought to each of these roles that truly defined her. She will be remembered for her generosity, tenacious spirit, and witty sense of humor. Her life touched many, and the memories she created will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Mary’s family finds peace in knowing that she has gained her wings; her mind, body, and spirit are now set free.

In lieu of flowers, please consider honoring Mary’s memory with a donation to an organization that supports Alzheimer’s patients and their families, or to a local animal rescue.

Visit RobinsonFuneralHomes.com or Robinson Funeral Home & Crematory – Powdersville Road, Easley.