William J. Kelley III 1950-2025

Billy was born May 25, 1950, in North Carolina, to William Kelley and Grace Culverhouse Kelley and grew up in Wilmington, North Carolina. He was a 1968 graduate of Hoggard High School in Wilmington.

He was a diehard gourmet and pursued a successful career as a chef, serving at universities in Florida and North Carolina. He retired 18 years ago as a manager of food service at Davidson College in Davidson, North Carolina. He loved to share heartwarming stories of his many valued students and employees whom he mentored and left an indelible impact.

He moved to Boardman in 2007, where he won many friends with his infectious smile, smooth dance moves and his full-throttle FUN loving spirit. He was a jolly jokester and master at turning others’ frowns upside down.

Billy is survived by his son, Jeff of Wilmington, North Carolina; brother, Alan of Wilmington, North Carolina; former wife, Marie Southwick of Hampstead, North Carolina; cousin who was more of a sister, Joyce Martin of Charlotte, North Carolina; three nephews; one niece; and longtime friend, partner and caregiver, Rick Logan of Howland.

Preceding him in death were his parents; Janet White, a cousin who was more of a sister of Charlotte, North Carolina; his longtime loving partner and business associate, Carl Lennon; and London Kelley, his proud and handsome golden retriever.

As per Billy’s wishes, no formal funeral services will take place. A spreading of his ashes and celebration of his life will take place this summer in North Carolina, his loving home.

Memorial contributions should be sent to the Animal Welfare League of Trumbull County, P.O. Box 66, Vienna, OH 44473 or online at awlrescueme.com.

Arrangements are by Higgins-Reardon Funeral Homes, Austintown Chapel.

(special notice)