Priscilla Kelley, 92

Priscilla Claire (DesRoches) Kelley, of Franklin, formerly of Needham, died peacefully at home on Wednesday, July 10, 2024 at the age of 92. Priscilla was surrounded by her seven adoring children. May she rest in the peace of the Lord.

Born on June 1, 1932 in Boston, Priscilla was the devoted daughter of C. Edward DesRoches and Evelyn (Baker) DesRoches. She attended Sacred Heart High School in Newton and graduated from Framingham State Teachers College (now Framingham State University) with a degree in Education. Priscilla began her career teaching first grade students at the Avery School in Dedham. Though Priscilla stopped teaching once her own children began to arrive, she never lost her love of reading to children. In later years, she also wrote a delightful series of children’s stories that impart her gentle wisdom and convey her love of little ones.

Priscilla and her loving husband, the late Leon E. Kelley, married in 1957 and settled in Needham. They became the proud parents of six daughters and finally a son – an event which made the news in The Needham Times. Devoted to their faith and Catholic education, Priscilla and Leon were dedicated parishioners at St. Joseph Parish and sent their seven children to St. Joseph School.

Priscilla’s entire life was centered on her deep love of God, service to those less fortunate, and dedication to her family. Her life was an example to us of selflessness, kindness and the power of faith. Priscilla was a talented and funny writer, a lifelong lover of music, and a beautiful singer who could best anyone at Name That Tune. Some of her greatest joys were welcoming new grandchildren and great-grandchildren, laughing and telling stories with family and caregivers, gazing at the ocean, and enjoying a good cup of coffee. Priscilla will forever be cherished in the hearts of all those who had the great fortune to know her. The memory of her gentleness, humility, grace and humor will remain a blessing to all.

Priscilla is survived by her eternally grateful children Suzanne (Holland), Kathleen, Jennifer (Hodgkins), Melissa, Paula, Elaine and Gregory, as well as her devoted sons-in-law, thirteen grandchildren, and three great grandchildren, all a source of joy and delight for Priscilla. She is also survived by her sister M. Evelyn Doherty of Wayland and her brother-in-law Robert J. Hearn of Needham. Priscilla was predeceased by her siblings Joan DesRoches, Dorothy Bond, Edward DesRoches, and Colette Hearn. Priscilla will also be greatly missed by her many nieces, nephews, extended family, and devoted caregivers.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Saint Joseph Church, 1360 Highland Avenue in Needham on Tuesday, July 16th at 11:00 AM. Visiting hours will be held prior to the Mass from 9:30-10:30 AM at Eaton Funeral Home, 1351 Highland Avenue in Needham. Interment will follow Mass at St. Mary’s Cemetery at 1 Wellesley Avenue in Needham.

For those wishing to make a donation, please consider the Franklin Food Pantry (www.franklinfoodpantry.org/) or Father Ssenfuma Runs for Uganda project (www.stjosephparishneedham.com).