One of their ancestors was a ferocious chieftain who fought loyally at the side of the great warrior king Brian Boru in one of Ireland's most bloody and decisive battles.
• Generations of others also fell on the field of battle, while succeeding generations of Kellys have gone on to achieve international fame – and not a small degree of infamy.
• Name variations include: Ó Ceallaigh (Gaelic), Kelley, Kellie, Kilkelly, MacKillely, O’Kelly, Gilkelly, O’Cadhla, and MacGoila.