Born on September 18, 1943, in Philadelphia, Kelly was affectionately known as “Kelly” by family and friends. His remarkable career spanned decades and left an indelible mark on the architectural landscape, especially in Philadelphia.
Kelly’s educational journey began at West Philadelphia High School, and he went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in architecture from Drexel University in 1971. His pursuit of knowledge led him to Harvard University, where he obtained a master’s degree in urban planning and design in 1974.
Armed with a solid educational foundation, Kelly returned to his hometown of Philadelphia in 1976, ready to contribute to the field of architecture.
With over 40 years of experience, Kelly played a pivotal role in shaping the planning, building, and documentation of various architectural and urban design projects.
His collaborative efforts with Vincent Maiello resulted in the establishment of Kelly Maiello, Inc., an architectural and planning firm that would go on to leave a lasting impact on the city’s skyline.
Additionally, Kelly generously shared his wealth of knowledge and experience as an educator at Temple University, where he dedicated 25 years to shaping the minds of future architects before his well-earned retirement.
“Kelly is always warm and friendly and had an enormous impact on me as an architect,” said fellow Philadelphia architect Jeff Fama, reflecting on the personal and professional influence Kelly had on his colleagues.
Kelly’s personal life was intertwined with his professional journey. In 1961, he married Joyce Wilson, and together they welcomed a son and a daughter. However, life took a turn, and Kelly found love again with Dyan Doughty.
The couple married in 1978, embarking on a 45-year journey together. During this time, Kelly showcased his architectural prowess by personally renovating their three-story home, creating a space that reflected his commitment to design.
The impact of Kelly’s architectural contributions extended far beyond the walls of his own home. His firm, Kelly Maiello, Inc., took on numerous projects that became integral parts of the local and state government infrastructure, educational institutions, and social service organizations.
Among the notable projects were the Pennsylvania Convention Center, the Philadelphia Criminal Justice Center, and the restoration of Philadelphia City Hall – each a testament to Kelly’s commitment to excellence in design and urban planning.
A respected figure in the architectural and design community, Kelly dedicated over two decades of his life to the Association for Public Arts Board. His commitment to public art and cultural enrichment didn’t stop there; he later joined the City of Philadelphia Art Commission, eventually assuming the role of chairman in 2015.
His tenure on the boards of directors of the Fabric Workshop and Museum and the steering committee of the Design Advocacy Group (DAG) showcased his ongoing dedication to shaping the cultural landscape of his beloved city.
Kelly was not merely an architect; he was a staunch supporter of social justice and affordable housing throughout his career. Actively participating in various architectural and planning groups, he firmly believed that architecture had the power to bring about positive change.
Kelly made history as the first Black president of the American Institute of Architects’ Philadelphia branch, receiving numerous honors and accolades for his efforts to advance social fairness through design.
In his leisure moments, Kelly immersed himself in reading about art and history, relished smoking cigars, and found joy in traveling abroad with his wife. The Association for Public Art aptly summarized his impactful legacy, stating, “Kelly left an impressive legacy as a leader, architect, educator, and advocate in a city he dedicated his life to shaping.”
