Betty Lorainne Kelly

Betty Lorainne Kelly passed away peacefully on December 16, 2025, at the age of 93. Born on November 30, 1932, in Toronto, Canada, Betty was the beloved daughter of Harold Frederick and Margretta Gee. She carried her Canadian roots with pride throughout her life, while also feeling immense gratitude for becoming an American citizen.

Betty’s early years eventually brought her to Laguna Beach, California, where she graduated from Laguna Beach High School in 1951. Afterward, she moved to Balboa Island, where she met the love of her life, Robert F. Kelly. Together they built a beautiful life and raised three cherished children: Robert, Wendy, and Terry Kelly.

Family was always at the center of Betty’s world. She dedicated her life to caring for those she loved and serving others with kindness and unwavering dedication. She worked many jobs over the years, including Senior Pepe’s, Osco, Skaggs, and later Rite Aid—eventually Walgreens—where she spent an incredible 38 years working at the Holladay locations.

Betty was far more than an employee; she was a fixture in the neighborhood and a familiar, welcoming presence to countless customers. Her customers were the highlight of her day, and her work ethic was unmatched. Working until she was 90 years old, she is one of the hardest-working people we have known.

Outside of work, Betty found joy in her family. She loved her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren deeply, taking immense pride in each generation. She spent hundreds of hours knitting—beginning with simple socks for Bob and eventually creating beautifully intricate Christmas stockings for her family and friends. These handmade treasures will be cherished for generations by all who were lucky enough to receive one.

Betty was the proud matriarch of her family, especially after the loss of her husband, serving as the glue that held everyone together. She took great pride in her family property in Laguna Beach and genuinely enjoyed the many renters she welcomed there over the years. Known for her festive spirit, she especially loved colorful, holiday-themed jewelry—her Fourth of July collection being a family favorite.

Above all, Betty will be remembered for her unwavering love and constant presence. She never missed a birthday, special occasion, school function, Sunday phone call rounds or a family gathering. Her support was unconditional, and she had a remarkable ability to make everyone feel welcome, valued, and loved—no matter how they came into her life.

Betty is survived by her son, Robert Kelly (Steve Rojas-Granja) Terry Wilkins, 7 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren. She was proceeded in death by her husband, Robert F. Kelly, daughter, Wendy Bailey, granddaughter, Cassandra, and parents, Fredrick Harold and Margretta Gee.

Betty Lorainne Kelly leaves behind a legacy of love, service, creativity, and strength. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by her family, friends, and all whose lives she touched.