Kelleys

Kelleys is a surname of Irish origin, a variant of Kelley and Kelly, derived from Gaelic Ó Ceallaigh, meaning “descendant of Ceallach.” The name is common in Ireland and among descendants in the United States, Canada, and Britain.

Kelleys may also refer to places named after people bearing the surname. The most prominent is Kelleys Island, a village on Kelleys Island in Lake Erie, in Erie County, Ohio. The island is one of the larger freshwater islands in Lake Erie and the largest that lies within Ohio. It is home to Kelleys Island State Park and features historic and natural sites that attract visitors. The island is accessible by ferry from Port Clinton and by private boat.

In addition to the island, “Kelleys” can function as the plural of the surname and appear in toponymic forms derived from individuals with the name Kelley or Kelleys. See also Kelley (surname) for related etymology and a broader list of people and places associated with the name.