Ronald J. Kelley

Ronald “Red” Kelley (62) passed away January 6, 2026 from a brief battle with lung cancer; after a year of fighting many other medical conditions and overcoming his odds. He proved to be much stronger than he ever gave himself credit for.

Red’s love language was quality time, and he loved nothing more than driving around spending his days dawning his satirical sense of humor, snappy jokes, and sarcasm on those he liked. Anyone that knew Red, would laugh when he was lovingly described as “the nicest jerk you’ll ever meet”. He loved playing Keno, drinking the biggest coffee he could get his hands on-almost white from the 6 creams he added, breakfast at Country Trading Post and Bingo on Wednesdays at the Polish Club and his brother’s cooking. He loved the Chicago Bears and would claim “this is their year” at the start of every football season. He also spent much of his time watching Nascar and bass fishing shows. He loved his daughter and granddaughter more than all his pastimes combined.

Red is survived by his daughter, Stephanie Rivas (Eric) and granddaughter Sloane of Ludlow. In 2023, Red reconnected with his son Ryan Radkowski (Ashley) of Tennessee after 40 years. They were able to develop a bond despite time and distance. Red also leaves behind his beloved brother Doyle Fontaine of Ludlow, whom was more like a father, Kathy Farnsworth, Daniel Kelley, John Kelley all of Ludlow, and Warren Kelley of Chicopee; along with many nieces, nephews and friends. He also leaves his little fella, Jonathan “Pom-Pom” Colantonio Jr, a little boy that he adored deeply and his ex-wife, Darlene Kennedy of Ludlow, who would visit him often during his illness to bring him balloons on his birthday, cut his hair and beard, and spend time reminiscing, which he loved.

The only comfort in his departure is the thought of being reunited with his loved ones that have passed before him. Red is predeceased by his father Carl Kelley and mother May (Anderson) Kelley, whom he missed brokenheartedly everyday since her passing; his brother Donald Kelley, and sisters Hazel Kelley and Diane (Fontaine) Corliss. He also endured great grief in the final years of life with the unexpected loss of his companion of 30 years, Karen Abair and best friends Harold Maynard and Gary Venne.

Per Red’s request an intimate gravesite memorial will be observed for burial.

In honor of Red, play the Keno numbers 15-16-17-18-19 as these were his “lucky” numbers and reminisce with a laugh and smile as often as possible to keep his tenacious spirit alive. Wilbraham Funeral Home is assisting the family.