Memorials

Dr. Neil Brian Kelley was a valued member of our CVM community and the Class of 2012. His contributions to the college and the profession of veterinary medicine have made a lasting impact. He will continue to be remembered fondly and missed dearly.
- Anonymous

Obituary

Dr. Neil B. Kelley, 57, of Virginia Beach, passed away peacefully, Friday, September 12, 2025 at his home, with family at his side.

Born in Philadelphia, PA, he was the son of the late Lynda Sandler Blair and her husband, James. He was also predeceased by his uncle, Chuck Sandler. Neil honorably served 21 years in the U.S. Navy, where he was affectionately known as “Doc,” working as an Independent Duty Corpsman and Deep Sea Diver. Following his military service, he earned his Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine from Virginia Tech. Neil went on to work at several veterinary clinics, including serving as Chief of Staff at Banfield Veterinary Hospital, before becoming the founder and owner of MyVet in Chesapeake.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 21 years, Rae’Ellen Kelley; children, Sean Patrick Kelley, Brian Connor Kelley and Maggie Rae’Ellen Kelley; his aunt, Joan and cousins, Scott and Brett.

A celebration of Neil’s life will be conducted at 6:00 p.m., Tuesday, September 16, 2025 at Briggs Funeral Home and Crematory, Chesapeake, with the family receiving friends following the service. The interment will be at a future date in Arlington National Cemetery.