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John Kelley Obituary
He was born May 13, 1921, in Dorset, Vt.
A graduate of Burr and Burton Academy and St. Michael's College, he spent his career in education, as principal and basketball coach at Orwell High School and teacher and guidance counselor at Fair Haven Union High School in Vermont.
A veteran of WWII, Mr. Kelley served in the U.S. Marine Corps and was awarded the Purple Heart for combat wounds sustained on Iwo Jima.
He was a member of the American Legion and the men's club at St. Francis Cabrini Church in Spring Hill.
He enjoyed fishing and gardening.
Survivors include a brother, Robert Kelley of Rutland; two daughters, Maureen Hill of Santa Fe, N.M., and Kathleen Koman of Winchester, Mass.; a son, Kevin Kelley of Nicosia, Cyprus; and three granddaughters.
Mr. Kelley was predeceased by his wife, Grace (Poulin) Kelley, in 1985; two sisters, Kathryn Keefe and Betty Keenan, and a brother, George Kelley.
Calling hours were held Sunday, March 6, at the Turner Funeral Home in Spring Hill, Fla.
The funeral Mass was celebrated Monday, March 7, at St. Francis Cabrini Church followed by a burial with military honors.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Wounded Warrior Project.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Kelley
George Patnode
March 12, 2011
Mr Kelley was my coach, mentor and good friend. He taught me a lot about sports and sportsmanship. He was a good teacher and the only one in a 2 year high school in Orwell, VT at the time. He ran the program with a strong hand and good heart. He will always be remembered. May Mr. Kelley rest in peace.
Charlie Grace '72
March 11, 2011
I echo Gordie's, Lynn's, and Mrs Ruby's comments. Mr. Kelley was a class act and someone you could always count on for sage advice. Peace to you John.
Nancy Ruby
March 10, 2011
I was fortunate enough to begin my teaching career at Fair Haven Union HS when John was guidance counselor. He was a wonderful, compassionate gentleman. I often remember his open door policy to all students and teachers. His influence on students, faculty and staff was always positive. RIP John
March 10, 2011
Mr. Kelly was my guidance counselor at Fair Haven Union H.S. When I was a senior I wanted to apply to SUNY Albany for college. He asked me if I had a second choice. I said no. He suggested I apply to Trinity College in Burlington, VT. I was accepted there and not at the New York school. What a godsend--I went to school there and worked there for 10 years until they closed. The Trinity family has become so very special to me and my family. What ever made him suggest that college I will never know, but I am eternally grateful that he did. I will remember him fondly for his gentle nature. My sympathy to his family. Lynn Burke Moreau, Class of 1973. Essex Junction, Vermont
Gordon Martel
March 9, 2011
I remember Mr. Kelly as principle at Orwell Elementary and later as guidence counselor at FHU. A good person who definitly left the world a better place than what he found it. May he rest in peace.
Vivian Larocque
March 9, 2011
Mr. Kelley was my teacher in grade school in Orwell, VT. I was just thinking about him the other day. He had a motto above the chaulk board. Shape up or ship out!
Richard Regimbald
March 9, 2011
Semper Fi John Kelly...now guarding Heavens Gates,
from one Marine to another
Richard J. Regimbald
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