Giles Clement Kelliher Worked as Railway Clerk

Giles Clement Kelliher died peacefully August 26 on Martha's Vineyard at the home of his son, David, with his wife, Justine, by his side. He was 91 years old. Giles and Justine were married for 57 years and lived all of that time in Newton Center. He was born in Malden.

A clerk for the Boston and Maine Railroad from 1936 to 1977, Mr. Kelliher was also a member of the Brotherhood of Railway Clerks and worked with the union to gain protection and justice for the common laborer. His work life was interrupted between 1943 and 1945 when he served in the Army Medical Corp during World War II. He was promoted to master sergeant in the One Hundred General Hospital stationed in France, Scotland, Wales, England, Luxemburg and Belgium.

Throughout his life, even in the last few years, Giles remained physically active and involved in his family and community. He enjoyed tennis, folk dancing, table tennis, camping and walking. He was also interested in environmental groups and the Ethical Society.

Giles was a loyal and loving husband, father and grandfather. He will be missed by all.

He is survived by his loving wife, Justine; six children, Giles Jr., Ralph, Margaret Anne, Justina, Julia and David; and 14 grandchildren, Kimberly, Ralph Jr., Merridith, Melissa, Alanna, Willow, Jeffrey, Shawna, Matthew, Suzanne, James, Renee, Ronald and Niambi.

A graveside service for the interment of his cremated remains will be held in Newton Cemetery on Oct. 8 at 1 p.m. with a reception to follow at the family home in Newton Center.

Arrangements are under the care of the Chapman, Cole & Gleason Funeral Home on the Edgartown-Vineyard Haven Road in Oak Bluffs. Visit www.ccgfuneralhome.com for online guest book and information.