Summary

The surname Kelley originated in Ireland and is derived from the Gaelic name Mac Ceallaigh, meaning 'son of Ceallach'. It has a rich history and is associated with the ancient kings and nobles of Ireland.
There are
140693
Kelleys in the USA
Kelley is the
198th
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Kelley

GeneKelly

Gene Kelly was an American actor, dancer, and singer who became widely known for his energetic and athletic dancing style in movies such as 'Singin' in the Rain' and 'An American in Paris.'

GraceKelly

Grace Kelly was an American actress who later became the Princess of Monaco after marrying Prince Rainier III. She was known for her elegance and iconic roles in films such as 'To Catch a Thief' and 'Rear Window.'

RobbieKeane

Robbie Keane is an Irish former professional footballer who played as a striker. He is the record goalscorer for the Republic of Ireland national team.

JamesKelly

James Kelly was an American general during the American Civil War and later served as the United States Ambassador to Italy. He played a key role in several significant battles of the Civil War.

EllieKemper

Ellie Kemper is an American actress and comedian known for her roles in the TV show 'The Office' and the series 'Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt.' She has also appeared in movies such as 'Bridesmaids' and '21 Jump Street.'

RichardKelley

Richard Kelley was an American photographer known for his contributions to the art of architectural photography. His work captured the beauty and intricacies of buildings and structures.

GraceKelley

Grace Kelley was an American actress who later became the Princess of Monaco after marrying Prince Rainier III. She was known for her elegance and iconic roles in films such as 'To Catch a Thief' and 'Rear Window.'

RobbieKeane

Robbie Keane is an Irish former professional footballer who played as a striker. He is the record goalscorer for the Republic of Ireland national team.

JamesKelly

James Kelly was an American general during the American Civil War and later served as the United States Ambassador to Italy. He played a key role in several significant battles of the Civil War.

EllieKemper

Ellie Kemper is an American actress and comedian known for her roles in the TV show 'The Office' and the series 'Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt.' She has also appeared in movies such as 'Bridesmaids' and '21 Jump Street.'

Kelley Genealogy

OriginsThe name Kelley is of Irish origin and is an anglicized form of the name Ó Ceallaigh, which means 'descendant of Ceallach.' Ceallach was a medieval Irish given name derived from the Gaelic word 'ceall' meaning 'church.' The name Kelley is often associated with County Galway in Ireland.
Geographic DistributionThe surname Kelley is most commonly found in the United States, particularly in states with significant Irish-American populations such as Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania, and Illinois. The name also has a presence in Ireland, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
VariationsVariations of the surname Kelley include Kelly, Kelleher, Kellee, Kelleye, O'Kelley, McElroy, McKelley, McKelley, Kelley, and Kellye.
Migration and ImmigrationThe name Kelley has a history of migration and immigration, particularly from Ireland to the United States during the Irish diaspora. Many Irish immigrants with the surname Kelley settled in cities like Boston, New York, and Chicago, where they contributed to the growth of Irish-American communities.