Gail L. Kelly, PA

May 19, 2025

Gail L. Kelly, 82, of Leola, PA, passed away on Monday, May 19, 2025 at Ephrata Community Hospital. Born in Williamstown, PA, she was the daughter of the late Rose (Myers) and George Hoffman, and the beloved wife of the late Ben L. Kelly Sr., who preceded her in death in 2017. Together, Gail and Ben built a life rooted in love, family, and shared adventures.

Gail was a woman of quiet strength, compassion, and a appreciation for life’s simple joys. She worked for many years as an inspector at Victor F. Weaver in New Holland. But it was in her home—surrounded by family, animals, and laughter—that Gail truly shined.

She had a soft spot for animals—especially stray ones, who somehow always seemed to find their way to her door and into her heart. Her beloved German shepherd was never far from her side, and she supported animal causes throughout her life. Gail also had a few favorites that made her smile: watching classic films on AMC or heartfelt stories on the Hallmark Channel, enjoying quiet time by her pool, or savoring a scoop of her favorite treat—Turkey Hill Dutch Chocolate Ice Cream.

She found joy in the open road, often riding on the back of her husband’s Harley, and in treasured family outings to Knoebels Amusement Resort. Nothing mattered more to Gail than time with her family. Her grandchildren were her

pride and joy, and holidays were filled with warmth, tradition, and the kind of love only she could give.

Gail is survived by her loving children: April Weaver (Ken) of Lititz, Audra Heiser (Russell) of Akron, and Ben Kelly Jr. (Joee) of Lancaster. She was a proud grandmother to seven grandchildren, fourteen great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. She also leaves behind her siblings: George Hoffman (Dolores) of Hummelstown, and Rose Bowman (Donald) of Virginia.

She was preceded in death by her granddaughter Destiny Geahr, as well as her siblings Arlene Graham, Shirley Grubb, Galen Hoffman, and Marian Hoffman.

Gail’s legacy is one of kindness, loyalty, and a deep love for her family and all creatures great and small. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the animal charity of your choice in her honor.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, May 24, 2025, at the Charles F. Snyder, Jr. Funeral Home and Crematory, 3110 Lititz Pike, Lititz, PA 17543. Family and friends will be received from 10:00 AM until the time of service. Interment will follow at Bareville Union Cemetery.