
Monday, 16 March 2026
On March 5, 2026, suddenly, at home, aged 72 years. Loved husband of Sherryn, proud Dad and father-in-law of Sarah and Chris, James and Nilou, and loved by his wider family, friends, and colleagues. Special thanks to the members of Emergency Services who attended to Murray. Messages may be addressed to: The family of the late Murray Kelly, c/- PO Box 39001, Christchurch 8545. A celebration of Murray’s life will be held in the Lincoln Event Centre, 15 Meijer Drive, Lincoln, on Monday, March 16, at 1.30pm.
It is with deep sadness to witness Murray's death. We were connected personally through our careers in the seed industry and he was a tremendous resource of practical knowledge known by researchers globally. I am privileged to have known him. William C. Young III, PhD Professor Emeritus, Seed Production Department of Crop & Soil Science Crop Science Building, Room 337 Oregon State University Corvallis, OR 97331-3002Bill Young
Kel was my best man. He was a great friend and a solid rock that you could always rely on. We knew each other from our years at Canterbury University, The Halls of Residence and flatting together in and around Christchurch including at Shands Rd, a Plant Breeders / Pyne Gould Guiness house. That was my last home in NZ, living with Kel and my future wife, Jane, until I got work in the Mining Industry in Western Australia. I think Sherryn then moved in. We partied, pubbed, attended concerts, supported our rugby and other sports, sailed dived and fished our way around Canterbury in our best years. He took his time in choosing Sherryn, but it was full on from day 1 once they met up. So sorry for your loss Sherryn and family. Even though I have only caught up with Kel a few times over the last 5 decades he leaves a big emptiness behind. A great mate. Vale, Kel. Peter PowellPeter Powell
Every life deserves to be honoured with care, and every family deserves the opportunity to come together, share stories, and say goodbye in a way that feels right for them. Whether you've just lost someone you love or are thinking about planning ahead, we're here to listen, guide, and support you â any time of day or night.
All calls answered by our Lamb & Hayward team