Carlsbad, CA – Army and Navy Academy is deeply saddened at the passing of Senator David G. Kelley, Class of 1947, who died last week.
A U.S. Air Force pilot during the Korean conflict, Senator Kelley went on to become a successful citrus rancher in Hemet, California, and a highly respected public servant. His distinguished political career included service in both the California State Assembly and the California State Senate, where he was a strong advocate for agriculture, education, and his local community.
In addition to his public service, Senator Kelley remained a steadfast supporter of his alma mater. He served as a dedicated member of the Army and Navy Academy Board of Trustees and was later honored as a Board Member Emeritus for his leadership and lasting contributions to the Academy’s mission.
Barry Shreiar, President of the Army and Navy Academy, offered the following on this Warrior’s passing. “Senator Kelley will always be remembered as a brilliant example of brotherhood, service, dedication, and commitment to so much of the state of California and to our Army and Navy Academy family. He was always ready to participate and make everyone around him better. Occasionally in life, we walk among titans, men whose greatness is evident in their work and how they conduct themselves. Senator Kelley was such a man. A titan among us.”
As the Academy remembers Senator Kelley’s life and impact, his story serves as a reminder of what it means to be Warrior Proud, Warrior Strong.