On Saturday, January 9, 2021, Kelly Dane Hailey left this earth to enter into heaven.

Kelly was born on November 30, 1978 to Charles and Bonnie Hailey in Tulsa, Oklahoma and moved, first to Dawsonville, Georgia, then to Alexander City, Alabama and finally to Mason, Ohio; graduating from Mason High School, class of 1997. He attended The University of Cincinnati studying sound and light engineering at the Cincinnati Conservatory of Music.

Destined to be a drummer he, as a child, set pots and pans on the kitchen floor, using the lids as cymbals. This was the catalyst for a lifelong love of music. Growing up in the national country music scene, he could be found backstage at major country music venues. With this foundation, Kelly became an accomplished drummer and musician, playing with the Urbancrest Church worship team and the Alternative Christian band Faded Me. Throughout his life he shared his love of music with everyone and let it shine wherever he was.

In 2004, his Saturn loaded with his drum kit and tent, Kelly began his Maine adventure. He became an integral part of a community, which he loved, and loved him in return. He touched the lives of many people on his journey, proving to be a shining example of how to treat people – honorably and with integrity, both in business and personal relationships. Starting his own business, he made quite a name for himself, and a beautiful environment for all his guys, sub-contractors, and his company. His projects speak volumes about going the extra mile, through craftsmanship, ethical project management, and client relationships. His clients became friends.

Kelly’s love of the great outdoors was palpable, especially fishing. Starting as a child he could be found fishing with his father, then from striper fishing in Maine, to fishing for marlin in Costa Rica, the passion to ‘wet a line’ continued throughout his life. Even on his last day he was doing precisely what he loved, fishing with his greatest friends.

Kelly was preceded in death by his father, Charles David Hailey; his oldest brother, Charles David Hailey Jr.; and his brother-in-law Gordon Surber.

He is survived by his mother, Bonnie Hailey; his Lady, Devon Salisbury and her daughter Althea, both of whom he loved deeply; his adored dog, Lucy; his brothers and sisters in law, Weldon and Lori Hailey, and Mark and Dana Hailey; and his sister, Judith Surber; along with numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and more friends than one can count.

The family would like to acknowledge their appreciation for Devon and Althea, as well as Brad, Andy, Jim, Chris, Scott, Gary, Rob, Bernie, and – all his guys – along with many others that expressed love and support to the family while in Maine. Thanks also to Kelly’s niece Kiersten, and her husband Chad McAvoy, for their continued support.

Services will be announced for a spring memorial as that information becomes available.

For anyone looking to honor Kelly’s legacy, turn your music up loud, dance in your kitchen, be quick to smile, laugh, and share a story. Donations can be made to the following organization in Kelly’s name: https://huntofalifetime.org/

Memories and condolences may be shared at www.ripostafh.com