Yesterday Robert W. Kelley celebrated his 90th birthday with friends and relatives at his home in Edgartown. Mr. Kelley’s grip when he shakes hands is just as firm as it was when years ago he headed the Edgartown National Bank. For 30 years Mr. Kelley worked as executive vice president of the bank. Many will remember visiting Mr. Kelley to apply for a mortgage and concluding the deal with his firm handshake.

Mr. Kelley was born in New Bedford and he moved to the Vineyard as a permanent resident as a toddler. He is a World War II decorated veteran. In 1946 he received a Purple Heart for injuries he experienced in the army. He also spent time yesterday with his wife of 70 years, Dot Kelley, who is a resident at Windemere. The Kelleys have 10 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.