Oliver Smith (a.k. O.S.) Kelly was born Dec. 13, 1824 in Greene Township, Clark County, Ohio. Kelly farmed with his father before serving as a carpenter's apprentice and later working as a journeyman. He married Ruth Ann Peck in 1847.

Kelly formed a construction partnership with J.A. Anderson that operated until 1852. Kelly then traveled West to visit the mining regions of California, returning to Ohio in 1856 with a considerable fortune. After his return, Kelly was involved in several business ventures, including the manufacture of reapers, renovation of an old factory into Kellys Arcade and Hotel and the purchase of several other companies, including what would become O.S. Kelly Piano Plate Co.

In 1863, Kelly was chosen as a member of the Springfield city council and served in that capacity for six years before he was appointed trustee for the waterworks. In 1887, O.S. Kelly was elected Mayor of Springfield. He subsequently served in many city offices and on many business and charitable boards, including Ferncliff Cemetery's Board of Directors, up to the close of his life.

Kelly died on April 11, 1904. His sons Oliver Warren and Edward

S. Kelly continued in his business affairs after his death.

The Kelly monument stands tall in Ferncliff Cemetery overlooking beautiful Kelly Lake, which was donated and constructed by O.S. Kelly, in Section A, Lot 56.

OS. Kelly is buried in Section A, Lot 56 at Ferniff Cemetery.