Earlwin "Earl" H. Kelty

WILLIAMSTOWN - Earlwin “Earl” Howard Kelty, 83, of Williamstown, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, at Central Vermont Medical Center, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on March 2, 1941, in Randolph, Earl was the youngest son of Clarence Daniel Kelty and Lena Bell (Clough) Kelty.

Earl attended Websterville School and joined the Army when he turned 18. After completing his service, he began working at Wells-Lamson Quarry and later transferred to Rock of Ages Quarry, where he dedicated many years of hard work until he retired.

On June 30, 1963, Earl married the love of his life, Dolores Robbins. Together, they built a beautiful family, raising three children whom he loved dearly. A talented musician, Earl played guitar and sang in the Kelty Brother’s Band alongside his brother Steve and friend Vern Hayford. They brought joy to many by performing in local clubs and at weddings in the Barre area. Later, his wife, Dolores, joined the band as the bassist. Earl’s love of music struck a chord with his family, inspiring his sons to follow in his footsteps. His son Chuck took up the guitar, while his son Mark embraced the drums. This began a family legacy of music that would continue into future generations.

Earl’s greatest joy was his family. He loved spending time outdoors with his grandchildren in the summer and shared a special bond with his grandson, Trey, through their golfing adventures. Earl’s warmth and generosity touched everyone he met. He was always ready to lend a helping hand and mentored many, especially his dear family member, Debbie Smith.

His legacy of love, music, and kindness will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him. Earl will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all whose lives he enriched.

Survivors include his beloved wife Dolores (Robbins) Kelty; his three children Chuck Kelty and his wife, Theresa; Julieann Davis and her husband, Mike, and Mark Kelty and former wife, Terry Bicknell. Earl was a proud grandfather to his grandchildren Tawney Kelty; Trey Kelty and his wife, Courtney; Cheyenne Kelty; Emmalee Davis; and Chantal Kelty; as well as great-grandfather to Declan Kelty.

A celebration of life will be held on Monday, March 10, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. in the Hooker Whitcomb Funeral Home, 7 Academy Street, Barre.  Following the service, there will be a reception at the Canadian Club of Barre, 414 East Montpelier Road, Barre. There are no calling hours. Burial to follow later in the spring.