Tombstone, Arizona
Nov 13, 1923 – Nov 29, 2006 (Age 83)
Emmett Kelly Jr., son of one of the nation's most famous hobo clowns who followed his father into a career under the big top, died Wednesday. He was 83. Kelly died of complications from pneumonia at Sierra Vista Regional Health Center near his home in Tombstone, Ariz., according to his daughter, CherryAnn Kelly-Knapp. His father -- before being a clown -- and mother, Eva Mae, performed as trapeze artists, according to Kelly's official Web site. In 1960, with the makeup and blessing of his father, Kelly made his clown debut at the Circus Festival in Peru, Ind., Kelly's miming and clowning skills grew in popularity. Four years later, Eastman Kodak signed him to appear at the New York World's Fair. Besides touring with the circus, Kelly went on to entertain at more than 2,800 hospitals and he was featured in print ads and TV commercials. His Web site said there are still products today depicting his likeness available, such as figurines and lithographs.
This man was my Great great grandfather. I didn't even know it until a close relative of mine said that we were related. I'm also related to his father, so rest in peace to my dear relatives.
Tyler Burnham
April 24, 2024 | Atco, NJ | Family
Em was one of my dearest friends. I worked on road shows with him for several years. He was always kind, helpful and a lot of fun to be with. I visited him in Tombstone just before he died and had a chance to tell my friend goodbye, which was blessing for him and me. His daughter Cherryann gave me a signed picture of Em on his 80th birthday. I still miss my friend. Louise Edwards
Louise Knight
July 31, 2021 | Salome, AZ | Friend
Emmett was a great friend. We met in Texas in 1982. We had long talks about a variety of things including Egyptian hyroglophics and ghosts in photographs, among other things. The world will miss him, as I do. Rest In Peace, my friend.
Hayley Murphy
March 21, 2017 | Dawson, TX | Friend
I still shed a tear when I think of you. You are missed.some day we will meat in another world.thanks for all the smiles you gave me.
Carrie Howland
May 27, 2008
sorry for your loss Emmet was a good man and an inspriation to many people like me. will always remember him
missy vebert
December 10, 2006 | Huntington, IN
I am so sorry for your loss. Emmett was well loved. I remember when he would come to sign your pieces i was always there to get him to sign mine. He would stop and take pictures with you I have over 75 pieces that he sign for me and i have a picture with him that I will always keep. i just loved him didn't really know his father but got a change to meet him through Dave who would do his show. I am 62 and will always remember his kindness. Kathy Sturkey
Kathy Sturkey
November 18, 2015 | Land O Lakes, FL | Friend
