Samuel Davis Kelley

Samuel Davis Kelley, affectionately known as "SD" was born September 20, 1936, in Orangeburg, SC to the late Claudia Mae Harrison Kelley and Benjamin Kelley. He moved to New York City in the late 1950s, eventually settling in New Haven, CT. SD was known for his vivacious personality, love for a good time and the love he had for his family and friends. There was never a dead party if SD was there.

Sam married Barbara Baker Kelley in 1962. He had one daughter, Sharon"Boney" Williams. SD was very devoted to his family, helping to raise nieces and nephews Dennis, Harris, Edward, Anthony, Terri, Paul and Paulette (the twins), Leonard and Sharon after the untimely passing of their mothers. Later, Sam and Barbara would adopt three nieces and a nephew, Shaunte', Tasha, Keyana and Daniel. Sam was the proud grandfather of one grandson, Lopez, often bragging about his credentials as a movie director who worked on the film Indiana Jones.

Sam had many names including "Boss Kelley", "Gator" and "Mr. Bo-Deen". He also had a plethora of skills. He was a self-employed jack of all trades but was especially known for carpentry and fixing furnaces. SD was a people's person. He enjoyed socializing and taking part in many bars and clubs throughout Connecticut and New Jersey. He even owned a club, Kelley's Lounge" on Legion Ave, at one point in his life. He was affiliated with many others such as T-Bows I and II, The Ebony Lounge, Devon's Lounge, The Dunbar Cafe, Scorpio's and finally, The Tree Social Club in Bridgeport, of which he remained a member until his death. Sam was fond of the late Elsie and Mr. Ray, the owners of the Ebony Lounge and Mr. Ray's After Hour. He shared a special bond with Dee and Love, owners of Devon's Lounge and Harry, the President of The Tree Club. At any point, Sam could be heard in the club yelling "Who you Wit" or "Whooooo". He danced Swing and was called the "Swing King". SD participated in many Freddy Fixer Parades throughout the 1980s, riding horses for T-Bows. He was known as "The Black Cowboy", leader of the horses in the parade. In addition to social activities, Sam' enjoyed gardening, fishing and working on cars. His favorite beer and football team was Miller's High Life and the New England Patriots. In Sam's own words, he had "One Hell of a Life".

In addition to a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends, Sam leaves cherished memories to his grandson, Lopez Williams of California, stepdaughter Pam Williams of Pennsylvania, brother-in-law James Baker, Goddaughters Linda Lampart and Kristina Lawrence, special friends Shirley Jackson, Prince Hayward (Sonny), Penelope and Lamont Barham, all of New Haven. He is predeceased by daughter Sharon "Boney" Williams, parents Claudia and Ben Kelley, siblings Frank Kelley, Maggie Bell Walker, Rosenell Henderson, Lily Mae Brittand Ada Henderson, nephews Dennis, Harrison, Anthony and Edward, and one niece, Eartha.

A Celebration of Samuel's life will be held on Saturday, November 14, 2026 at Colonial Funerals, 86 Circular Avenue, Hamden, CT 06514. Viewing will take place at 10:00 AM with a service to follow at 11:00 AM. Condolences may be expressed at colonialfunerals.com