Kellie Bigos, 73 (1949-2022), was a tenth-generation member of the Quaker Kelley family of Cape Cod. She was born at Cape Cod Hospital and died at home in Boothbay Harbor, Maine, at dawn on July 9, surrounded by loved ones after a fight against cancer. Kellie lived her life and faced her mortality with fortitude and determination.

She is survived by her son, Dan Bigos and granddaughter, Alana Bigos, of Vermont; her longtime companion of 43 years Douglas Hayner of Boothbay Harbor; sister Gladwin Kelley and brother Paul Kelley, both of Harwich, Massachusetts, and much-loved cats.

She was predeceased by former husband, Dick Bigos.

Kelllie earned a BA in Fine Arts and an MA Teacher Certification from UMass Dartmouth.

Rather than avoid challenges, Kellie pursued them and found ways to meet and solve them head-on. She applied her expertise to many fields and was accomplished in all. On Cape Cod, she was director of Adult Education of the Nauset Regional School system, program director, Cape Cod Museum of Natural History, and for three years chairman of the Brewster in Bloom town festival.

In Maine, Kellie brought her skill and creativity to her career as a travel consultant, planning memorable trips for her clients, and writing articles including “To the Moon, Alice,” “Morocco, Here I Come,” “Shedding Light on Ireland” and others. She also served as recording secretary to the town of Boothbay Harbor as well as postmaster for the West Boothbay Harbor and Trevett locations. Kellie worked for Spectrum Generations in Lincoln County as the meals coordinator and spearheaded the AniMeals program which also included meals for their pets. She also played the Highland bagpipes and African Djembe.

Avid travelers, Kellie and Doug explored the world from the Great Wall of China to the souks of Morocco. They traveled extensively throughout Europe as well as to Egypt, India and Mexico.

Kellie leaves behind many friends who will miss her loyal friendship, organizational skills, and meals at their warm and inviting home.

Her ashes will be scattered in her favorite places: Cape Cod, Boothbay Harbor and Key West.

Donations in Kellie’s memory can be made to the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History.