Gayle E. Kelley, 75, of Skaneateles, died peacefully on Oct. 16, 2019, after long and brave battles with multiple sclerosis, breast, lung and pancreatic cancers. Gayle was born in Chicago, IL, and resided in Arizona for many years before moving to Skaneateles in 1981. For over 38 years, Gayle was employed by major corporations as a marketing manager, human relations director and employee benefits’ manager.
In 1983, Gayle and her husband, Howard, started the Skaneateles Community Band with Howard as the director, and Gayle as manager and bass drummer until Howard’s death in October 1991.
Gayle was a spirited person with a wonderful sense of humor, who loved music and animals. Among her many qualities, Gayle only saw the good in people, while always trying to help others. Being from Chicago, she was also an avid Cubs fan.
Gayle was a member of St. James’ Episcopal Church in Skaneateles and was for many years a member of the Skaneateles American Legion Post 239 Ladies Auxiliary. Gayle was pre-deceased by her parents, Gilbert E. Graham and Ruth K. (nee Mason), her brother, Kenneth Graham of Greendale, WI, her husband, Howard E. Kelley, and her beloved dog, Dusty. Surviving are her children, Traci Spelts and Bradley Drella of Watertown, TN, her step-granddaughter, Christine Clayton of Watertown, TN, several step grandchildren, cousins, nieces, and nephews, and her loyal dog, Andy.
Gayle will be greatly missed by everyone who knew her.
