Noel Sutherland Kelley Obituary (2024)

Noel Sutherland Kelley, age 94, passed peacefully on August 15, 2024. A long-time resident of Yakima, Noel developed lifelong friendships here in the valley, through his involvement with regional arts, theater, and music communities. Noel grew up in Marysville, Washington, and graduated from high school as a member of the of 1947. Following graduation, he served two years of active duty in the Marine Corps, where he also played in their band. After his military service, Noel completed his BA in Education at the University of Washington, then taught English for a few years, before relocating to Yakima, to work for Yakama Nation Indian Health Care. He spent most of his career working in Occupational Rehabilitation for DSHS. Noel's volunteer work in the Yakima Valley included reading to visually impaired students at Yakima Valley Community College, and volunteering for many years at Memorial Hospital, making use of his knowledge about insurance and assisting with data entry. Kelley collected jazz records, bought and wore vintage clothing, baked in the sun, appreciated a fine glass of scotch, and make a mean cherry pie. He had a great sense of humor and loved sharing jokes and puns. An avid gardener and reader, he enjoyed talking about what he was reading, and always passed on his copies of the New Yorker and American Scholar to friends. Noel leaves behind his two sisters, Dona Kelley Kearns of Yakima, Washington (who helped care for him during the last few years of his life), and Isabel Sudholt of O'Fallon, Illinois. He also leaves behind his nephews, Barrett Kearns II (Morgan) of Opeika, Alabama, Dale Sudholt of Bynesville, Missouri, and a niece, Anne Tyler of Belleville, Illinois. Noel will be greatly missed by his longtime friend and companion, Leo Adams, his beloved dogs, and his diverse group of friends of all ages. A Celebration of Noel's Life will be held on Sunday, November 10, 2024, from 3:00-5:00pm, at the Yakima Area Arboretum (1401 Arboretum Drive, Yakima, WA 98901). Brookside Funeral Home is caring for the family. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.brooksidefuneral.com.