KELLY MEAGHER
Kelly Meagher passed away peacefully at home on November 25, 2021 after a lengthy illness. He was born Gregory Kelly Meagher on June 20, 1952 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to Edward Meagher and Veronica (Vernie) Kelly. He was the third born son. The family moved to Whittier, California in 1957. Kelly graduated from St. Paul High School in Santa Fe Springs in 1970. Kelly’s older brothers Joe
Meagher and Mike Meagher are predeceased. He is survived by his younger sister Maura Meagher Barrington (Torrance, CA) and four nieces: Anne Meagher Limbrick (Vancouver, WA), Sarah Meagher Gaymer (London, England), Jamie Barrington MacArthur (Lomita, CA) and Michelle Barrington (San Pedro, CA). For many years his family visited Kelly at his home during the summer and his nieces spent countless hours enjoying swimming in the creek in Uncle Kelly’s backyard.
Kelly Meagher’s community and political activism began early in his life. After graduating from high school in 1970 he went to work for Cesar Chavez and the United Farm Workers, UFW. Upon achieving his conscientious-objector status he worked in a hospital to meet his civilian public service. After his service he moved to Berkeley and worked as a selfemployed painter. While painting an apartment complex, he was electrocuted resulting in 70% burns and the loss of his arms. Not to be held back, Kelly moved to Chico at the bequest of longtime friends and quickly immersed himself in to local environmental and political scene.
What a special person. His impact is immeasurable and will positively affect Chico and surrounding community for generations to come. He led with personal will, hard work, and financial generosity. His first foray into local politics was as a volunteer for “Friends of the Foothills” helping stop a 75 unit condo project in Butte Creek Canyon. In the early 80’s his work as the General Manager and personal
financial help kept the Butte Environmental Council afloat. He co-chaired a group of environmental activists and community members “No Way – San Jose” defeating a large scale development next to Bidwell Park. He supported progressive politicians and non-profit causes throughout his time in Chico. He supported the starting of the community radio station KZFR, gave free plants away annually at the BEC’s Endangered Species Fair, and helped start a community newspaper. He loved ‘holding court’ at Duffy’s, rafting on the Klamath and Sacramento rivers, Giants spring training in Scottsdale, and bird watching on his porch in the Canyon. He is loved.
There will be a memorial service later in the spring when it is safe to do so. In lieu of flowers please support the Honey Run Covered Bridge Association in their bid to rebuild the covered bridge.