Bea was born in Cahersiveen, County Kerry, Ireland to Michael and Mary Griffin. At age 19, she immigrated to the United States to an aunt and uncle she had never met. She married John “Jack” W. Kelly, September 11, 1954, at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church. She became a U.S. citizen May 1, 1959.

Bea was a woman of strong faith. She was a member of All Saints Catholic Parish and previously Holy Rosary Parish. This faith sustained her after the death of Jack who passed away in 1981. After her husband passed away, she went to Portland Community College, Cascade, to refresh her secretarial and computer skills, and went to work for the Bonneville Power Administration from 1984 to 1994. She was an avid gardener and strong supporter of her grandchildren.

She is survived by her children, Mary Spicher of Portland, Aileen Kelly of Maple Valley, Wash., Michael Kelly of Portland, Brendan Kelly (Carrie) of Beaverton and Deirdre Kelly-Smith (Matt) of Portland; grandchildren, Christine Verpoorten, John Iatesta, Mary Margaret and Patrick Kelly, and Kelly Smith; sisters, Mary O’Connor and Cautie Kissane; and brothers, John Griffin, all of County Kerry and Michael Griffin of Chicago.

A service has been held. Donations may be made to the American Heart Association.