'A True Leader': Former Woburn Police Chief Remembered

WOBURN, MA — Officers with the Woburn Police Department are mourning the loss of one of their former police chiefs. Richard Kelley, died at his home Wednesday. He was 67 years old.

"Chief Kelley was a true leader and a mentor to many of the officers who work within the ranks of our department today," the department posted on its official Facebook page. "He was always a police officer at heart, never losing sight of where he started. Chief Kelley will be missed terribly by all who knew him."

Kelley began his career with the Woburn Police Department as a reserve patrol officer in 1977. He became a full-time officer in 1980. He then rose through the ranks of the department and promoted to sergeant in 1987, lieutenant in 1995 and captain in 1997.

He was later promoted to interim police chief before retiring in 2011.

He is survived by his wife, his three children and grandchildren.

"Chief, may you rest in eternal peace. We thank you for your over 30 years of dedicated service to the citizens of Woburn and to the Woburn Police Department," the department said.

State Rep. Richard Haggerty also recalled his time working with Kelley while on city council.

"He was a great man and a strong leader. Very fortunate to have worked with him when I served on the council," the lawmaker said on social media.

According to Kelley's obituary, a funeral mass will take place at St. Barbara Church, which is at 138 Cambridge Rd. in Woburn, on Tuesday, June 8 at 10 a.m.

Calling hours will take place on Monday, June 7 at St. Barbara Church from 2 p.m. – 6 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to honor the former police chief at the Joslin Clinic, 1 Joslin Place, Boston, MA 02215.