James Bernard Kelly

In Loving Memory and Forever in My Heart

James Bernard Kelly, 80, passed away August 4, 2025 in Spring, TX. Jim was born January 7, 1945 in East St Louis, IL to A. Bernard Kelly and Helen Felts. Jim and BeaAnn married in 1982, and together they shared 43 years of a loving, joyous and enduring marriage.

At 17, Jim enlisted in the US Navy for adventure and to see the world, which he accomplished aboard the flight deck of the USS Saratoga CVA60 during 3 Mediterranean deployments while stationed in Florida.

Jim was employed in various job positions for 33 years in the chemical industry, where he only missed a total of 9 days of sick leave.

He filled the dash between 1945-2025 with a vast array of interests and hobbies that he shared with family and friends. He was an avid fisherman, skilled sailor, SCUBA diver, photographer, cook, and musician. Jim and BeaAnn also enjoyed many activities together: including motor-cycling, bicycling, sailing, nature/travel photography, volunteering in various clubs and organizations. They were able to visit all 7 continents and numerous world destinations before Jim required care for vascular dementia the last 4 years of his life. Jim will be remembered for his sense of humor and zest for life by friends in Florida and Texas.

Jim is survived by his wife, BeaAnn Kelly, stepson, Ben Pena (Cecilia), step-daughter, Angela Toups (Larry) 6 stepgrands, Benjamin, Aaron, Katie, and Jacob Pena, Vanessa Hicks, and Angelica Gaitan, numerous greatgrands, and nieces and nephews; first wife, Betty and her children, Debbie, Jeff, and Cindy. He was predeceased by his only son, James Kelly II, 3 years ago. Sadly, Jim was not aware of "Jimmy's" illness nor his passing, due to his dementia. Now they are healed and playing their music for The Lord. Jim also lost stepson, Michael (Betty's son) at age 14.

Jim was most proud of his service to his country and will be interred at Houston National Cemetery in the fall, at a date to be determined.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Alzheimer's Research, veterans organization, hospice, or charity of your choice.

The family would like to thank the staff of Autumn Leaves Cypresswoods Memory Care and Hope Beyond Hospice for their care and kindness, and the many family and friends who visited Jim during his sunset years.