"We are here to laugh at the odds and live our lives so that Death will tremble to take us." Charles Bukowski

On Sunday September 18, 2022 we know death trembled taking Benjamin Stephen Kelley. He is now soaring with the Angels with his Grandmothers Patricia and Marion. And hanging with Nick watching over their brothers and parents. Born on March 26, 2004, beloved son, brother, grandson, nephew and friend. Ben was a 2022 graduate of Attleboro High School (Note… the ugly old AHS not the beautiful new AHS!). He had just started studying finance through the Year Up program in Providence, RI. He was an avid rock climber, skier, and bodybuilder. Benjamin recently started golfing and bowling with friends and embracing hiking with his family. Over the years Ben played soccer and basketball, ran track and did gymnastics. Wise beyond his years, when pulled away from "gaming"- kicking and screaming; at a young age he realized how good being active was for him physically and spiritually.

Ben had an infectious smile and laugh and was stunningly handsome. He was humble and had no idea how positively he impacted people. Ben was a great source of joy and laughter to everyone he met. He was born running and climbing and never came across a pile of rocks he didn't climb upon. While Ben was not a fan of structured studies, he was an avid reader and researcher who was knowledgeable about all kinds of things. He loved history and read historical fiction and non-fiction. Ben had a passion for music that he shared with everyone he met. He was probably the only 18 year old with a playlist that spanned the decades from the 1950's to present, and included Jazz and Blues. Ben used to bang on the drums, but during COVID found his passion and comfort in teaching himself guitar. "Hey There Delilah" by The Plain White T's was his first self taught song.

Ben was fiercely loyal to his friends and family; and vice versa. Ben was close to his grandparents and helped take care of them. He could be found bringing food to his grandparents or his grandfather to the barber shop. He would run out the door instantly if his friends or family needed support.

Benjamin is survived by his parents Maryanne and Jim Kelley; brother Jack Kelley and his significant other Courtney Beale; grandfathers Stephen Gwozdz and James Kelley; Uncle Bob Sullivan; Aunt and Uncle Anne and Justin McCarthy; cousins Ursula and Justin McCarthy, countless cousins and close friends, and his cherished (and sometimes annoying) dogs Mojo and Benny.

As his family, we are rendered speechless by the outpouring of love and support and would like to express our gratitude. We ask that Ben's spirit never be forgotten and you hold him in your hearts and prayers.

Calling hours will be held in the Russell & Pica Funeral Home, 17 Main Street (RT 105), Lakeville, MA on Tuesday, September 27th from 4:00 - 7:00 PM. Burial will be private at the convenience of the family. The family requests those attending calling hours for Ben wear, rock band shirts, flannel, bright colors, Hawaiian shirts or tie dye in memory of Ben.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to South Eastern Massachusetts PAWS of Comfort Lions, 878 Washington Street, South Attleboro, MA 02703, or the Alzheimer's Association of Massachusetts, 309 Waverley Oaks Road, Waltham, MA 02452.