Obituary of Leah Madeline Kelly

With great sadness, the family announces the death of Leah Madeline “Peggy” Kelly nee Bailey (formerly of Sarnia) on June 14, 2018 in Strathroy at the age of 93. Peggy, against the odds of her time and situation, earned full scholarships to the University of Manchester UK where she studied chemistry and botany. After graduation, she briefly taught high school science in Manchester before moving to London to work as a research scientist at the Ministry of Food. She then met her future husband Norman Kelly who would be emigrating to Canada after which she herself emigrated and they were married in Hamilton in 1948. Peggy worked in the lab at Hamilton General until the birth of daughter Judy. By 1952 and now living in Sarnia they raised 3 children after which she returned to teaching at the New Hope School in Sarnia until retirement in the early 1980’s. Peggy was a wonderful conversationalist and listener. She loved to read and follow politics. Both her and Norm were early members of the Unitarians of Sarnia and Port Huron. Her other great love was gardening and flowers of which she was very knowledgeable. Donating time to charity was important and Peggy volunteered for many organizations over the years from the March of Dimes going door to door in the 1950s with kids in tow, as well as The Cancer Society manning information booths, senior’s recreation activities at Marshall Gowland along with husband Norm, the transit commission and lastly helping out with the VON’s senior toe nail clinics. Peggy was also a financial supporter for Sick Kids Hospital in Toronto as well as a few other charities. Predeceased by her husband Norm (1994), daughter Judy (2010) and cousin Madeline Howarth. Peggy leaves behind her daughter Pauline Newell (Wayne Chanyi), Peter Kelly (Larry). Her two grandchildren Lori Newell and Jason (Valery Henley) Newell. Four great grandchildren, Tyler (Caitlin), Leah, Sloan and Paige and her first great great grandchild Ryker. She will be missed by her niece Kathy Sitter. We wish to thank the wonderful staff at Sprucedale Care Centre in Strathroy for their wonderful care and support. In lieu of flowers a donation to the Alzheimer’s Society or the SPCA or a charity of your choice. Online condolences and donations may be made at www.strathroyfuneralhome.com Arrangements entrusted to DENNING’S OF STRATHROY.