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John Kelly Obituary
Born in Detroit, Michigan on January 10, 1937, Jack attended St. Edward High School in Lakewood, Ohio, where he distinguished himself in basketball, and was inducted into their Hall of Fame. He attended Villanova University in Pennsylvania on a sports scholarship and was an All-American in basketball and baseball. He was also inducted into the Villanova Hall of Fame in 1996. Jack and Kathie Kelly nee McKenna were married from 1958 to 1987, and together they raised six children. After graduating from Villanova in 1958 with a Bachelor of Science in Economics, he was signed to the major league baseball Pittsburgh Pirates as a left-handed pitcher. After leaving professional baseball, he relocated his family to New Jersey in 1965. Jack worked his way up in the insurance industry in New York City. He achieved the graduate distinction of chartered life underwriter (CLU) and became a broker assisting corporations and individuals until his retirement. In 2007, MetLife recognized Jack's efforts with a Lifetime Achievement Award.
A lifelong athlete, he played competitive tennis for many years after he left professional sports. Jack considered himself a New Yorker after more than 50 years working and living in New York City, and he had many happy memories of the New York Athletic Club, the US Open Tennis Tournament, the Knicks, Yankees and Mets, Broadway performances, and navigating "the City." Jack loved to travel and visited locations around the world. He found strength and peace in his commitment to sobriety and those who shared his journey. Jack loved the sun, enjoyed spending time with his family by the pool in Pottersville, New Jersey, and ultimately settled in Aventura, Florida at the end of his life.
Described by his loved ones as "larger than life," he had a knack for pulling off big surprises, a special gift, an opportunity, or a fantastic experience for the people he loved. Jack lived a big life, and his memory and legacy will impact his family and loved ones for many years in the future.
The family will hold a small private gathering on a future date to honor Jack's memory. In lieu of a traditional funeral, we invite you to share memories of Jack through a private online tribute on everloved.com/life-of/john-donovan-kelly.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Kelly
Sponsored by The Family.
5 Entries
Dennis F. Butler, (Sr.)
February 16, 2025
My old brother, John, was his close friend and played Basketball at St.Ed´s.,Jack and John me "rage" along to play ball. Jack lived on Geil Avenue in Lakewwod Ohio with St.Ed´s just up the Street. His sister,Mary Kay, was my childhood "Crush" who wisely chose another. Jack was a good mentor to all. The lobby of St.Ed Gym was donated by Jack. Thanks, Jack, and safe home, Dennis F.Butler,,Esq.
Dennis F. Butler, (Sr.)
February 16, 2025
Jack was a mentor to as youngster and my brother,John, was his close friend! He lived on Geil Avenue in Lakewwod Ohio and attended St.Eds that was just up the street. He was the best high school b- ball players in Ohio and subsequently donated the lobby of the gym at St.Eds. His sister, Mary Kay, was my high school girlfriend who wisely choose another. Thanks Jack and safe home. Dennis F.Butler,Esq.
Ma Huidi
February 16, 2025
This is sorrowful news. We have lost an exceptional colleague and a friend. Let us pray for Jack Kelly and bid him farewell on his final journey. May he rest in peace.
John F OBrien
February 11, 2025
A Great friend, A St Ed Eagle and Villanova Wildcat, loved by many.
Too many adventures over the years to recount, but just can´t forget that great Irish smile. His Basketball exploits brought pride to his classmates, never to be forgotten. A true friend over the years. God rest your soul.
Erin Go Bragh!
Kevin Kelly
February 10, 2025
I am so sorry to hear about Uncle Jack's passing. I am also sorry that we had lost touch over the years. My memories of him will always bring a smile to my face. Memories of Higgins Lake - like the brothers accidently burning down the gazebo trying to get rid of a bee's nest, waterskiing off the back of the pontoon boat, swimming in water still cold as ice in July, and lots of laughing. "Bigger than life" was an accurate description, and how I will always remember him!
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