Much loved mother, wife, sister and daughter, Kelly died at home December 5, 2020 after a two year battle with cancer. She is survived by her husband Don Bland, daughter Alexandra, stepdaughter Emily, her siblings Catherine Woods and Michael Woods, parents John and Carol Woods and her many nieces and nephews. Kelly was born in Toronto in 1959 but moved to Victoria when she was a young girl and never left, having found her favourite place on earth. Before her illness, Kelly practiced family and estate law at Crease Harman and Company where she was a compassionate and effective advocate for clients going through difficult circumstances. Kelly suffered her own tribulations with great courage and grace. Kelly loved her family and her home in Oak Bay where she and Don raised their wonderful daughters of whom she was so proud. Kelly was a long term and committed volunteer for the Salvation Army https://salvationarmy.ca/ and we know that in lieu of flowers she would have wanted a donation in her name to them to aid their efforts in helping the infirm and disadvantaged.
No service by request.
Condolences may be offered to the family at www.mccallgardens.com
21 Responses
I was so surprised and saddened to see this news. It has been more than 25 years since I’ve talked with Kelly but I’ve never forgotten her. She helped me through a difficult divorce and was the consummate professional at all times. But that is not what I remember her for. Kelly helped me regain, over the months we worked together, my sense of self-worth by treating me always with respect, compassion, fairness… no matter the circumstances. I knew then, and have retained all these years, an awareness of Kelly as a very special person, and I have always felt fortunate that she was part of my life, however briefly. This is such a sad and difficult time for all family and friends who are dealing with the loss of this dear person – please accept my most heartfelt condolences to you all.
Cori-Lee Fisher
We knew Kelly for barely six months, through our dogs, but immediately recognized her fierce intelligence, kindness, and terrific wit. She was someone both of us really wanted to get to know better, and are greatly saddened by her much too early passing.
Sincere condolences to all her family members, and her canine companion Alfie.
Alan and Carol Bodie
Our deepest condolences to our neighbour Don, Alexandra, Emily and all Kelly’s family at their great loss.
I am very sorry to learn that Kelly has passed away. My thoughts are with her partner, daughter and rest of her family.
I met Kelly 17 years ago when she acted as my lawyer after my separation. She was amazing! Her compassion and intelligence made all the difference in my life then, and to this day.
I hope her memory will be a blessing to her family.
Sincerely,
Linda Doctoroff
So sorry to learn of Kelly’s passing. She was a lovely person.
Sincere condolences.
Jack & Carol McClintock
We offer our sincere condolences to Don and family. We got to know Kelly when they would walk by our home on Monterey. I worked with Don and his brother, Jim. Our daughter, Dana worked with Kelly in her office. You are in our thoughts. Doug and Angela Oakley
Emily, Don and family – Our deepest sympathy on the loss of Kelly. Our thoughts are with you all.
Don & family, I would like to express my sincere condolences. I was so sorry to learn of Kelly’s passing. She once represented me in a family matter & was a consummate professional. A great person taken too soon. May she rest in peace.
My deepest condolences to Don and his family.
To Kelly’s family and friends
I worked with Kelly for approx 7 years at Crease Harman & Co. I have fond memories of her…..she was a dynamo with her sharp wit, intellect and humour. A lawyer extraordinaire. I’d like to share this quote that I think describes her so perfectly……”she was a flamboyant streak of lightning that lit up the landscape, and she didn’t stint on the thunder!”
Rest In Peace Kelly, you’ve earned it.