William “Ben” Kelly

November 27, 1973 – October 22, 2026

William “Ben” Kelly, age 52, passed away peacefully with his family at his side, at Aurora Medical Center – Mount Pleasant on Thursday, October 22, 2026 following a 3-month battle with colon cancer.

William was born in Racine on November 27, 1973 to William Miller & Dianne Kelly. He was a 1993 graduate of JI Case High School. Shortly after, he began his working career at In-sink-erator, where he performed many task, and remained for many years. Following, he went onto work at Amazon for 7-years before leaving to help care for his beloved mother, Dianne.

Ben grew up in the church family of Shiloh Ministries, and years later was an active member of Refuge Church. Ben loved being at home with his family, cooking, watching sports – especially football, basketball, baseball, and boxing; As well as enjoying meals made by his niece Ireland. He was so happy to have watched the Brewers sweep the Dodgers….and was anxiously awaiting watching the World Series before he passed. Ben will always be remembered for his contagious smile, his chill personality, and his loving passion for his sweet “Mother Dear” as he addressed her everyday.

Surviving are his loving mother, Dianne Kelly; sister, Diana Kelly; brother, Lewis Walker (his wife, Bryne) Walker; brother, LA (Danielle)Johnston; adored nieces & nephews, Ja’Quaise Ghani (his fiancé, Lindsey); Ireland Earl; Kailey, Brielle & Lewis Walker the 4th; Lewis, Cayden, Zariah Johnston; his great nieces, nephews and many other relatives, & great friends-including Bobby Auston. Ben was preceded in death by his father figure, Lewis Walker Sr. & many other loved ones.

Memorial services will be celebrated on Saturday, November 14, 2026 at 11:00 am in Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home. Visitation will be in the funeral home on Saturday, November 14th, from 10-11 am.