Jean Kelsey Obituary: Clancy-Palumbo Funeral Home, East Haven

Jean (Bowden) Kelsey, 93 of East Haven and Portland CT passed away peacefully on September 30, 2026. She was born December 2, 1932 in New Haven to Douglas and Myrtle (Blake) Bowden. Jean is survived by her sons; Richard D. Pogmore Jr. of Turbotville, PA, Charles T. Pogmore (Rosemarie) of Lebanon, CT and a daughter, Christine M. Lopes (Ed) of Mystic CT, Richard D. Kelsey (Terry) of Portland CT along with ten grandchildren and ten great grandchildren.

She was predeceased by husband Donald Kelsey, daughter Judith L Pogmore , stepson, Jeffery D. Kelsey and a brother, Douglas Bowden Jr.

Jean grew up in East Haven and graduated East Haven High School in 1950. She was a loyal friend and a proud member of The International Order of the Rainbow for Girls. She was a member of the First Congregational Church of Portland CT and of the Portland Historical Society. She enjoyed sewing, knitting, crocheting and needle pointing, creating sweaters, blankets and more for her grandchildren and others. She displayed many of her Samplers throughout her home. In 1980 she married Donald Kelsey of Portland Ct and enjoyed many years relaxing and entertaining at their cottage on Kelsey's Pond. They shared many wonderful holidays together with family and friends and they traveled and visited long time friends as often as they could.

The Family is very grateful to Annmarie, Nikki and JoJo for their kindness and care they provided for Jean in her later years.

Family and friends are invited to attend a graveside service on Tuesday October 13, 2026 at 11:30 Am in East Lawn Cemetery, 58 River Street, East Haven. Please go directly to the cemetery. All services are under the care of the Clancy-Palumbo Funeral Home, 43 Kirkham Ave., East Haven CT.

In Lieu of Flowers, donations can be made to: Operation Smile, P.O. Box 5017, Hagerstown MD 21741 in memory of Jean Kelsey.