Maryjane Borgerding Kelley died at home in Doylestown on October 22, 2018, at the age of 62. She was born in Baltimore, Maryland, the fifth of eight children.
Maryjane dedicated her life to supporting others, and she was a fierce advocate for those she loved. She knew how to see the lovability and God’s presence in everyone. Throughout her six year battle with cancer, she continued her work supporting families as Managing Attorney with Legal Aid of Southeastern PA. She wanted to do as much as she could for as long as she could. When she wanted to do something, she was a powerful force, with a contagious positivity.
Maryjane lived her life fully. She cultivated her homegrown joy of gardening into a certification as a Master Gardener. She had an adventurous spirit, and enjoyed traveling, but always made sure to spend holidays with her extended family in Maryland.
Maryjane was an active member of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church, including serving as a member of Parish Council, as an adult altar server, as a Scout leader, working with prison ministry, and landscaping gardens surrounding the Parish school. She and Kevin, her husband of 40 years, were a presenting couple with the Worldwide Marriage Encounter for nine years.
Her life of service included 22 years as a JAG Officer in the Naval Reserve. She retired as a Commander in 2003.
That sense of service was instilled in her by her own parents, Judge Edward F. Borgerding and nurse Jeanne Marie Borgerding (née Zang). And it is one she has passed onto her own children and all those around her.
Maryjane’s legacy includes treasured quilts she created, songs she coined to teach life lessons to her four children, and her inspiring others to live their best lives.
Maryjane is survived by her husband Kevin Kelley, and children Michael, Teresa, Sarah and David. Also her siblings, Jeanne Zarnoch, Fran Smith, Pat Broccolina, Carol Higbee, Bill Borgerding, Terry Holt and Michele Digate. Her love lives on in these family members, as well as all those who she touched in her life.
There will be a viewing from 9:30 to 11 a.m., Friday, October 26 at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, 235 East State Street, Doylestown with her funeral Mass beginning at 11 a.m. The interment will be in Doylestown Cemetery.
Donations in Maryjane’s name are encouraged to one of her preferred charities, Food for the Poor, Inc., 6401 Lyons Road, Coconut Creek, Florida 33073 or UNICEF.