Laura Drew Kelly

Laura Drew Kelly, beloved educator, writer, traveler, and community advocate, passed away on May 31, 2026, in Dover, Delaware, at the age of 90. She was born on December 31, 1935, in Brooklyn, New York.

Laura graduated from Erasmus Hall High School and earned degrees from Hunter College and the City University of New York Graduate Center. She dedicated much of her life to education, teaching at the Jewish Foundation School, New Dorp High School, and Curtis High School on Staten Island. She also taught English in Taiwan and Puerto Rico, inspiring countless students throughout her career.

Beyond the classroom, Laura was an accomplished playwright, poet, essayist, and short story writer. She co-founded Parachute literary magazine and the Writers Guild of Staten Island. She was also active in civic affairs, community theater, and local political organizations.

In 1975, Laura married Michael Kelly. Together they shared a love of nature, camping, theater, and travel. Their adventures took them across North and South America, Europe, Asia, Greenland, the Galápagos Islands, and beyond. Together they also adopted and raised their daughter, Michaela.

After retiring from teaching in 2004, Laura and Michael moved to Dover, Delaware, where they became active members of Camden Friends Meeting. Surrounded by nature and close to family, Laura enjoyed a rich and fulfilling retirement.

Laura is survived by her husband of 51 years, Michael Kelly; her children Sarah, Elizabeth, Jared, Alexandra, and Michaela; four grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

Laura will be remembered for her passion for learning, her creativity, her adventurous spirit, and the lasting impact she had on her students, family, and community.

July 11, 2026, at 3:00 PM

Camden Friends

122 E. Camden Wyoming Ave.

Camden, DE 19934