* PLEASE NOTE - Celebration of Life is on JULY 26, 2025 *

There will be a Celebration of Life on JULY 26th, 1:00 pm at the East Hill by Senior Living Hospitality in Southbury, CT.

Delcye Riefler Kelz October 16, 1934 – June 28, 2025 Southbury, Connecticut

Delcye Riefler Kelz, 90, of Southbury, CT, passed away peacefully and unexpectedly in her home at East Hill on June 28, 2025.

Born on October 16, 1934, in Scranton, PA, to Edward Abbott and Maxine (Sweeley) Riefler, Delcye was the cherished younger sister of Richard Riefler. At age six, her family moved to Honesdale, PA, where she spent her formative years. She graduated from Honesdale High School in 1952, where she was a four-year majorette (leader in her senior year), captain of the cheerleading team, and an active member of the Spotlight Staff, News Staff, Chorus, and other school organizations.

Delcye pursued her studies in Business Administration at Keystone Junior College in Factoryville, PA, where she actively participated in student life—serving as class treasurer, cheerleader, a member of the Choral Society, and the Keystone Women's Organization. She later attended Penn State University before marrying her high school sweetheart, Julius Robert "Bob" Kelz, on June 25, 1955.

After Bob graduated from Bucknell University and returned to Honesdale to run the family business, Kelz Bottling Works, Delcye worked at Wayne County Bank. She also generously dedicated her time to the community, singing in the church choir and supporting numerous local charities and organizations. Together, they raised three children: Julius Robert Kelz II, Edward Riefler Kelz, and Susan Jane Kelz.

In 1963, the Kelz family moved to Monticello, NY, where Bob followed his passion for education. Delcye embraced her role as a dedicated mother and active community member, joining the Monticello Women's Club and teaching Sunday School at the Methodist Church. Her love for education and the arts led her to serve in various roles at Monticello High School's music and theater departments, as well as working as an assistant to the librarian at the middle school.

In 1974, the family relocated to Divine Corners when Bob became Superintendent of the Tri-Valley School District. During his 16-year tenure, Delcye remained deeply involved in both school and community life.

Delcye cherished being around others. A natural socialite, she lit up every room—whether dancing, enjoying a martini, or telling a great joke. Her warmth, quick wit, and easy laughter made her a friend to all, from lifelong companions to strangers who quickly became friends.

After Bob's retirement in 1990, the couple embraced a life of travel and adventure. They explored international destinations, spent joyful days at lake houses, and enjoyed winters as snowbirds. No matter where they went, they found—and created—lasting friendships. Delcye was the heartbeat of every gathering, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother and friend, a thoughtful listener, and the most enthusiastic cheerleader anyone could ask for.

In November 2019, Delcye and Bob moved to The Watermark, East Hill community in Southbury, CT, where they began another beautiful chapter of life, forming new friendships that brought great joy and left a lasting impact.

Affectionately known as Delcye, Delc, Mom, Mother, Gram, or Bammie, Delcye loved being a mother—and especially a grandmother and great-grandmother. She was always there for her children, whether driving them, cheering them on from the sidelines, or supporting every milestone. As they grew older, she became not just a mother but a friend.

As a grandmother, she was immensely proud of each grandchild. She delighted in greeting them after school with snacks and hugs, celebrating every event she could attend—and those she couldn't, she celebrated from afar. She loved spending time with her family during the holidays, especially at Thanksgiving and Christmas, but also enjoyed sharing her love of the beach/lakes/pools with her grandchildren. Whether lounging around on a tube, collecting seashells, or simply soaking up the sun together, those days became treasured memories. She also took great joy in creating traditions—decorating the house, cooking favorite meals, and making sure everyone felt seen and special. She wore her heart on her sleeve and never missed an opportunity to boast about her beautiful family.

Delcye leaves behind a legacy of connection, compassion, humor, and an unshakable zest for life. Her spirit lives on in her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all who were blessed to know her.

She is predeceased by her parents, Edward Abbott Riefler and Maxine Sweeley Riefler; her sister-in-law, Jay Riefler; her beloved husband, Julius Robert Kelz; and her son, Julius Robert Kelz II.

She is survived by her brother, Richard Riefler; her son, Edward "Ted" Kelz (Judith); her daughter, Susan Kelz Cabot; and her grandchildren: J. Robert Kelz III (Ashley), Michael Snow (Kerrie), Shoshona Snow, Emily Kelz, Tyler Cabot (Alexa), and Austin Cabot (Chris). She is also survived by her great-grandchildren: Gabby, Jace, Jaxon, Solana, and Daniel.

There will be a Celebration of Life on JULY 26th, 1:00 pm at the East Hill by Senior Living Hospitality in Southbury, CT.   There will be a burial service for both Julius Robert Kelz and Delcye together in Grahamsville, NY in the fall.

In place of flowers, donations may be made to the East Hill Tree Fund or to the East Hill Resident Gift Fund, 611 E Hill Rd, Southbury, CT 06488.