Donald Edward Kelley (known fondly as Kel, Don, or Donnie) passed away peacefully at his home in Waynesboro, Virginia, with family on October 1, 2025. He was born on March 3, 1931, in Greensburg, Pennsylvania, one of three children of Demetrius Alphonsus Kelley and Josephine C. Herron Kelley. He was preceded in death by his beloved siblings, John Herron Kelley and Mary Louise "Sis" Kelley Weightman Alcorn.

On August 8, 1953, Donald married his high school sweetheart, Nancy June Hempfield Kelley. Together they shared 72 wonderful years of marriage, a lifetime of love and laughter, and raised four devoted daughters: Kathleen Marie Kelley Briggs, Maureen Ann Kelley, Doctor Colleen Mary Kelley Bohrmann, and Karen Lynn Kelley Miller. Their family circle expanded to include sons-in-law Brian Briggs, Tim Kent, Klaus Bohrmann, and Alphonso "Pee Wee" Miller; grandchildren Lisa Briggs Potter, Amy Kelley Briggs, Klaus Michael Bohrmann, and Jordan Kelley Miller; and great-grandchildren James Edward Potter, Beau Kelley Bohrmann, Brynnly Paige Bohrmann, and Blakely June Bohrmann. Donald was also preceded in death by his beloved grandson, Keaton Kelley Bohrmann.

Donald is now reunited with his lifelong friend and brother-in-law, Edward Hempfield, and Edward's wife, Patricia. Their children—Michael Hempfield, Kim Cochran, John Hempfield, and Kady Hempfield—were loved by Donald as his own and remain cherished companions to the Kelley girls. Other nieces and nephews include - Carol Welling, Karen Miller, David Weightman, Barby Hoover, Larry Weightman, John Andrew Kelley, and Annette Marie Kelley Kavanaugh.

A graduate of Greensburg High School, Donald attended Saint Vincent College in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, playing college football, before proudly serving his country in the United States Navy during the Korean Conflict from 1950-1953. He was a lifelong Pittsburgh Steeler fan as well as an accomplished athlete.

Donald built a long and distinguished career in surveying and construction with firms including Yule Jordan Engineering, Gannett Fleming, J.A. Jones, and Daniels Construction. His final and most notable project, the Bath County Pumped Storage Facility—at the time the largest hydroelectric plant in the world—stands as a testament to his skill and dedication. Even in retirement, Donald continued to give back to his community, serving as a founding board member for the restoration of the Blue Ridge Tunnel, a project he supported with vigor and enthusiasm. His passion for building extended well beyond his professional life—he was always ready with tools in hand to help neighbors, friends, and family with their home projects.

As the proud father of four competitive swimmers, Donald became one of the most respected officials in the United States. For over 50 years, he served as a certified referee and official with AAU/USA Swimming, University of Virginia and James Madison University Swimming and Diving, YMCA Swimming, Athletic Coast Conference Swimming and Diving, and NCAA Swimming and Diving. Known for his fairness, calm authority, and good humor, he earned the admiration of coaches and swimmers across the nation.

A man of steadfast faith, Donald was an active member of Saint John's Catholic Church, where he served communion and participated in parish ministries.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Alyson, Amber, Wanda, Natasha, Cindy, and Chaplain Kevin for their compassionate care and support since February 2025, which brought comfort and peace to Donald's final journey. Special thanks to McDow Funeral Home for their loving care of Donald.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to your favorite swimming program, the Crozet Tunnel Foundation (P.O. Box 636, Lovingston, Virginia 22949), or Medi Home Hospice (1430 Rolkin Court, Suite 203, Charlottesville, Virginia 22911).