Arlene (Backus) Kelly

Arlene Backus Kelly, 83, of Bennett Ave. died Monday, February 4, 2019 at her residence surrounded by her family after a brief illness.   Born March 23, 1935 in Jersey City, NJ, she was the daughter of the late William and Marie Kelly.  A Saugerties resident since 1966, she formerly worked at the Children’s Annex as a Teacher’s Assistant. 

Flowers, gardening, and travel were her passions. She loved spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren.   Parties and gatherings with her family and friends were an important part of her life.  Survivors include 2 sons: James (Diane) and Timothy (Karen) Backus, both of Saugerties, 5 daughters: Colleen (Bill) Wynkoop of Saugerties, Patricia (Bob) Vaselewski and Kelly (Guy) Guardino both of Port Ewen, Pegeen (Michael) Flynn of Woodstock GA, Ellen (Karl) Kost of Catskill  A brother, William Kelly of Birmingham AL, 18 grandchildren, 18 great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews also survive.  She was predeceased by a daughter, Maureen Backus Schad, a sister, Regina Kelly, a brother, Paul Kelly and her beloved dog, Molly.

Her Funeral Procession will form 9:15 AM Saturday at the Seamon-Wilsey Funeral Home, Inc. Cor. of John & Lafayette Sts. thence to St. John’s, where at 10:00 AM a Mass of Christian Burial will be offered.  Interment will follow in the Blue Mt. Cemetery.  Friends will be received Friday 2-4 and 7-9 PM.  Expressions of condolence may be shared with the family on Arlene’s Tribute wall @SeamonWilseyFuneralHome.  In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to either St. Jude’s or Hospice of Ulster County.

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