Former Celtic chairman Kevin Kelly has died at the age of 88 after a brief battle with illness, the club has confirmed. Kelly, who was a descendant of James Kelly, Celtic's first-ever captain, served on the Parkhead board for more than three decades from 1971 to 1994.
Club Statement
A statement from Celtic Football Club read: "Celtic Football Club can confirm that former chairman, Kevin Kelly passed away peacefully yesterday morning after a short illness. Kevin was Celtic chairman from 1991-1994, and a director and passionate supporter of the club over many years. Our sincere condolences, thoughts and prayers are with Kevin’s family at this very difficult time."
Key Contributions
Kelly played a leading role in Celtic's search for a new home in the 1990s. Plans were seriously considered to relocate the club to Cambuslang before the idea was eventually abandoned in favour of redeveloping Celtic Park. When Fergus McCann completed his takeover in 1994, Kelly stepped down from his position at the club but later remained involved in an honorary capacity.
Born in 1937, Kelly came from Celtic royalty, being the descendant of club legend James Kelly, the Hoops' first-ever captain. His dedication to the club spanned decades, and he was remembered as a passionate supporter and dedicated director.
