Carole R. Kelley

Carole R. (Lettieri)Kelley age 72 of Bedford passed away on Monday, November 17, 2008 at Emerson Hospital.

Carole was born with dancing shoes on in Cambridge on April 9, 1936 daughter of Ruth Lillian (Johnson) and the late Patrick Lettieri. Raised in the Cambridge/Boston area, she spent much of her childhood pursuing her dance passion thanks to her devoted mom's encouragement and support, which she later shared with countless students and their families for over thirty years from Bedford, Lexington, Concord, and the surrounding towns. It wasn't uncommon for her students to take their first class at three years, and their last class upon high school graduation. Her students were truly "family"; and I'm sure most would say, "Miss Carole" had nothing less than the highest of expectations for them. "Giving it your all" was not only encouraged, but required in her classes. Carole choreographed creative dance performances year-after-year for her students and their families. Her love for her community of students extended far beyond their many years in the studio, as she took great pride in hearing about their life's journey and accomplishments.

One couldn't grow up in Carole's household without moving your feet under the dinner table. Her love for the art of dance was passed on to her daughters Kim and Jody as preschoolers, and Kim continued in her footsteps as the artistic director of the The Stage Door Dance Studio in Bedford, MA for over fifteen years. Jody has pursued a career as a costume designer for competition dance studios nationally. And Carole's pride and joy, her granddaughters, Kandice and Kendra both have pursued dance/performance opportunities with the Radio City Rockettes, Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines, and Disney World.

Carole equally loved and cherished her pets and wildlife; and she passionately supported numerous animal protection causes. It wasn't uncommon for her to have a household of beloved pets as family members; and somehow, every stray animal seemed to know where they'd be welcomed home, even if just for temporary shelter.

She also loved spending time around the kitchen table bantering on current affairs with her cherished family, friends, and neighbors -- especially with her "angel" neighbor, Jim Horton. Carole also enjoyed arts & crafts, reality dance TV, ice skating, and was an avid armchair sports fan.

Carole will be sadly missed by her mother, Ruth, who is approaching 101 years young -- who throughout her life altered most every dance costume with love for Carole's students.

Her family thanks each of you for sharing in her beloved journey. "Dance Your Dream" Nanabella -- you will always be with us.

With much love and gratitude -- your family.