Yesterday, April 29th, the Department, the Commonwealth, and the Nation lost a true pioneer and friend whose entire life was dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities.  That champion was Fran Kelley.  Sadly, he passed away at his home in Delray Beach, Florida where he lived with his dear wife, Bette, since his retirement in 1993.

Fran was an individual who came to Wrentham in the late 1970’s after leaving his “can do” mark and positive attitude in Rhode Island, Connecticut, and Florida.  He exhibited all of the traits of a great leader whose career spanned many decades.  The excellence in services provided at the Wrentham Developmental Center is the direct result of his vision, his hard work, and his ability to instill the attitude that nothing is impossible and that team work is the way to go…..and this he did with great zeal and friendship.

While he was at the Mansfield Training School in the 1960’s, Fran worked diligently with his friend, Eunice Shriver, in helping to establish the Special Olympics Program.  Always a great supporter of athletes, he, along with his friend, Steve Nelson of the New England Patriots, established the private, non-profit organization, known far and wide as the Friends of Wrentham.  Since its inception in 1979, this group has raised millions of dollars for the benefit of the residents at Wrentham.

The Wrentham Parents’ Association always held a special place in Fran’s heart, and he built a rock-solid relationship with them that has stood the test of time.

This giant of a man, Fran Kelley, will always hold a place of great honor and special endearment at Wrentham and within the field of intellectu

al disabilities.

We will miss him for his friendship, his passion, his leadership, and his great vision. 

May you rest in peace, Fran Kelley.