Background: The Kelly surname, along with common variants Kelley and Kellie, has a number of possible origins. Most commonly it loosely means "descendant of war," from the ancient Irish name "O'Ceallaigh." The Gaelic prefix "O" indicates "male descendant of", plus the personal byname "Ceallach" meaning "strife" or "contention". The name may also mean "bright headed."
Variations: O'Kelly, Kelly, O'Kelley, Kelley, O'Kellie, Kellie, Kelli, O'Killia, Killia.
More Info: http://heraldry.celticradio.net/search.php?id=221
Discussion of this family is welcomed.
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