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James Kelley Obituary
He was born Aug. 27, 1971, in New London, the son of Alfred and Mary (Thorp) Kelley of Waterford. James attended local schools and graduated from Waterford High School, class of 1989. He enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps and was a combat veteran of the Gulf War. He was honorably discharged at the rank of sergeant.
James was a certified EMT and former volunteer firefighter with the Cohanzie Fire Department. He was employed by the State of Connecticut Department of Correction as an officer, acting lieutenant, and member of the Tactical Ops Unit. Later, he received his bachelor of science and master's degrees in public health from Eastern Connecticut State University and was currently enrolled for his doctorate degree.
Besides his parents, he is survived by his wife, Sandy (Rognalsen) Kelley of Middlebury; two children, Erin Kelley of Waterford and James E. Kelley Jr. of New York; his brother, Duane and wife, Peggy, of Oakdale; two nephews, Duane Jr. and Sean Kelley of Oakdale.
His family will receive relatives and friends from 6 to 8 p.m. today, Aug. 14, at Impellitteri-Malia Funeral Home, 84 Montauk Ave., New London. Graveside services with full military honors will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Thursday in Jordan Cemetery, Waterford. A reception will follow at Church of Our Redeemer, 33 Cedar Grove Ave., New London.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for James Kelley
September 6, 2013
I was fortunate to have worked with Jim at Dr. West office.
Jim was always wonderfully compassionate and kind and had a great sense of humor and dedication.
His gentle soul touched many people and he will be missed by us all.
My heart and prayers are with you and your family.
Susan O'Donnell
Paul Sylvestre
August 23, 2013
I knew Jim in High School. He was a great friend. Jim, you will be missed. My condolences to your family.
Laura Ewalt
August 15, 2013
I miss you, cousin, Jimmy.
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Kathy Nicely (Worrall)
August 15, 2013
Mary, Al and family - you are in my prayers. Words cannot be found to help heal the loss you feel in your heart. Know that your family and friends surround you all with our love.
Cathy Newlin
August 15, 2013
Thinking of the Kelley family today. Jim was a friend through high school and we lost touch. He was just "a nice guy". He was good natured and a good friend. Thinking of you today, my friend.
Tammy Krebs
August 15, 2013
Jim was a classmate of mine since grade school, and lived down the road from me growing up. He was the typical kid who had fun all the time, enjoyed his friends. May the memories of his smile and laughter give you comfort during this difficult time. My sympathies to all who knew and loved Jim.
Barbara Gomes
August 15, 2013
Mary< my condolences on the loss of your dear son Jim. He looked like he was an outstanding young man and a great loss amongst us. Peace be with you.
Denise Evrett
August 14, 2013
So sad to hear of your brother's passing, You are in our prays
Anson Clinton
August 14, 2013
My condolences to the family of Jim, My thoughts are with you Jim, as a co- worker at Gates we were family, and you will be missed by many. May your spirit live on with a warm heart and a great smile.
August 14, 2013
I had the pleasure of working with Jim at Gates CI and became instant friends, along with my husbands friends we enjoyed many good times together. I am deeply sorry for your loss, words cannot explain what a great person Jim was.
Melissa Holmes Montgomery Alabama
L Moschini
August 14, 2013
My condolences to the families. Jim was a good man with a lot of excellent ideas. He worked in my building for a while and I enjoyed his outgoing personality. I'm sure he is in a better place.
Janette Brennan-Montminy
August 14, 2013
Duane -
Thinking of you and your family. Only the good times matter now. Semper Fi
Mary Ann Nordstrom
August 14, 2013
My thoughts and prayers go out to you Duane and your family during this time. I am so sorry for your loss.
Tim Wood
August 14, 2013
Deepest sympathy to the wife and family of Jim. He was a co-worker, friend, fellow Marine and an all around great guy. May God bless and comfort you all as only He can.
Daniel Hester
August 14, 2013
Very sorry to here, my condolences
Kim Perkins Roberts
August 14, 2013
I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and Prayers are with you all.
Pat Gualandi
August 14, 2013
Duane,Peggy,DJ and Sean, so very sorry to hear of the untimely passing of your brother, brother in law and Uncle. I am sure your hearts are breaking right now, but remember to keep him close to your heart and he will never be far from any of you. God Bless you and your wonderful family.
Dianne & Edward Kexel
August 14, 2013
The Kelly Family, We are so sorry to hear of James passing.Our Payers go out to all of his family members.(Remember The Southeastern Support Group)...Dianne & Edward Kexel
Randy & Mary Dossat
August 14, 2013
Duane, Peggy and family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this most difficult time. While we know what your going through, going forward we hope that you cherish the memories you have and find comfort with your friends and family. God bless!
Mary Gardner
August 14, 2013
Sincere condolences to the Kelley family with the passing of a loved and cherished son, husband, father, and brother. May fond memories brighten your days as time passes.
janet butler
August 14, 2013
Barbara, Mary, Al, Thorp and Kelley Families, I was saddened to hear of james passing. Through My trips to Ct. with Barbara I have come to know about Him. I know that everyone was very proud of His accomplishments. May God help You through this sad and painful time. Remember the good times and hopefully those remembrances will help ease Your pain. You are in My thoughts and prayers. Janet
Dwayne Spurley
August 14, 2013
Prayers abound for such a tragic loss.
MICHAEL Warren
August 14, 2013
RIP Jim, you were always a great friend, I enjoyed talking and getting together. Working together was great-we made the best out of it just like East. I going to really miss you, this is very painful I feel depressed. I wish I could have done something for you. Both of us Marines, I failed like I missed a chance. Had no idea how much pain you were in, I wish I could have taken some of your pain. Jim you would be happy yo know some Marines are coming up to pay their respects, their coming for you. You had man, many friends. Prayers go out to your Mom and Dad, your wife, Duane and his family and all your their family. Semper Fi Brother, you guard the gates of heaven. We will meet again.
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