Niall Brendan Kelley

Niall Brendan Kelley, of Walpole passed away on August 2, 2026, he was 25 years of age. 

Niall was born on April 26, 2001 at South Shore Hospital and lived his first few years in Braintree with his parents, Tommy and Michelle, along with his older brothers, Christian and Shane. In 2003, the family moved to Walpole where the boys made numerous friends. All three boys were members of the Walpole Swim Team for many years, with Niall joining as soon as he was out of diapers. He spent much of his life in and around the water, beginning with the town team, then with the high school team (where he was elected a captain) and even on to varsity college swimming. The team camaraderie and enduring friendships were a meaningful part of his life..

Niall’s unique personality was evident from a very young age. From essential oils permeating his room, to his stuffed animal and snowglobe collections, to own way of speaking- what his friends refer to as “Niall-isms.”

After graduating from Walpole High School in 2019, Niall ventured to the deep South to attend Hendrix College in Arkansas. From the day he landed there, a new world blossomed as he was surrounded by a whole new group of friends. In fact, in true Niall fashion, he was able to stitch his Walpole friend group together with his Hendrix crew. This past May, he was part of the wedding party of his college roommate.

Niall and his brothers were lucky to grow up in a loving family where they were loved on by doting aunts and uncles, grandparents, and the most wonderful cousins. Everyone considered him their ‘bestie’ including his grandmother Patsy. He danced and sang for her (sometimes inappropriately.) He always enjoyed making everyone laugh.

Behind his humorous antics though, was a sensitive, caring soul. His love was deep - something you could feel through his incredible hugs. He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, pet-sitting for friends and neighbors, playing board games, watching true crime documentaries and reality tv. He often incorporated some reality tv quotes into everyday conversations. Niall’s presence was truly a gift to everyone who knew him.

In the words of Nicole (one of the many who called Niall their best friend)

“You were the funniest, most charismatic person I have ever met, but more importantly, the kindest, most free-spirited soul. You were the biggest source of energy in every room, and people couldn’t help but gravitate towards you. You made everyday brighter simply by existing.”

Beloved son of Michelle K. (Goss) and Thomas J. Kelley of Walpole. 

Loving brother of Christian and Shane Kelley. 

Dear grandson the late Florence “Kathy” Goss and the late Patricia and Paul Kelley. 

Adored by his aunts and uncles Paul and Patrice Kelley, Theresa and Robert Owens, Kevin and Sheila Roake, Kevin Kelley, Tammy and Brian McMullen, Kristine and David Swan, David Goss, and Gia and Philip Rose. 

Cherished cousin to Julianne, Mary Theresa, Kevin Patrick, Rachel, Mabel, Jacquelyn, Alexa, Riley, Tyler, Cameron, Abigail, Andrew, Gavin, Brendan, Ashtin and Gage. 

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend Niall’s visitation on Saturday, August 8, 2026, from 9:30 am-12:30 pm in the James H. Delaney & Son Funeral Home, 48 Common Street, Walpole. Followed immediately by a funeral service in the funeral home at 12:30 pm, relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend. At the family’s request, interment will be private. 

In lieu of flowers donations in Niall’s memory may be made to Medfield Animal Shelter via Donate | Medfield Animal Shelter.