LEWISTON – Rosemary Geldart Kelley of Auburn, died at St. Marguerite d’Youville Pavilion on April 12.

Born in New Brunswick, Canada, on Aug. 27, 1932, Rosemary was adopted and raised in Hiram by her grandparents, Essie and John F. Kelley Sr.

A cerebral palsy victim at birth, Rosemary overcame many added physical challenges in her lifetime, including cancer and diabetes, and did so with grace and courage.

In an age when little appreciation was given to the difficulties of living with physical handicaps, she attended and graduated from Gould Academy in Bethel, earned a B.A. degree from Bates College in Lewiston, and a M.A. degree from Simmons College in Boston, Mass. She was very proud of these achievements.

Rosemary worked as an administrative assistant at Harvard University and later as a medical librarian at the University Of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine.

She spent her later years as a caregiver for Bessie Ochtill and her aunt, Lena Warren.

She is survived by her aunt, Evelyn Kelley, of Bridgton; cousins, Jack Kelley of Winthrop, and Beverly Dudley of Standish; a niece; and a nephew.

She was predeceased by her grandparents; her sister, Vivian Kley; and a very special cousin, Geraldine Kimball.

Rosemary was especially appreciative of the care given by her friend, Carol Layton, and the many dedicated health care professionals at d’Youville Pavilion.