Judith "Judy" Kelley

Judith L. "Judy" Kelley, a cherished mother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully at home on January 4, 2026, at the age of 83 in Marlton, New Jersey. Born on January 25, 1942, in New Brunswick, New Jersey, Judy's life was a testament to her loving nature, kind spirit, and thoughtful heart.
Judy graduated from high school in her home town of East Brunswick, New Jersey and went on to earn her degree from Houghton University in Houghton, New York. Her passion for education and nurturing young minds led her to a career in teaching. Although she took a hiatus to raise her beloved children, her dedication to education never wavered. During the time her children were young, Judy found joy sharing her talent in arts and crafts with the residents at the Parker Home in New Brunswick. She later returned to her calling as an educator, spending the majority of her career enriching the lives of countless students at Switlik Elementary School in Jackson, NJ until her retirement.
Judy's faith was important in her life, guiding her actions with grace and compassion. She loved helping others, both as a neighbor and a volunteer. She found great pleasure in gardening, cultivating not only plants and flowers, but also friendships with those who shared her love for the earth's beauty. Her creative spirit shone brightly in her arts and crafts, a hobby that allowed her to express her vibrant personality. Judy's love for helping others extended to animals too; it was evident in the way she cared for her own pets and even the occasional stray that found its way to her door.
Judy was a fierce advocate for people living with Parkinson's Disease. She fought tirelessly, using her passion for education to discover and share the latest information on treatments and therapies. Throughout her diagnosis, she continually supported her fellow "PWP's" (People with Parkinson's) while embracing her own best life.
Judy was predeceased by her brother, Chester "Pete" Gatarz, her former husband, John E. Kelley and her son, John A. "Jak" Kelley. She is survived by her daughter, Tracie A. Kelley, her son, Peter J. Kelley, her sister, Andrea "Gyl" Mele; sister-in-law, Monica Carter(John); nieces and nephews, Leigh Ann Gatarz, Drew Onifer(Hanna), Renee Gatarz, Heather Steelman, and Erica Pearson(Grant); and great-nieces and nephew, Ava Cullinane, Tyra Vick(Sam), Madelyn Onifer, Angelina Bellantone, and Austin Steelman; beloved friend and caregiver Amanda Witfoth Rickle (Scott; Scottie, Savannah, Sadie). Judy's life was a beautiful mosaic of the love she gave and the lives she touched. Judy Kelley's spirit will forever be cherished and her legacy will live on in the hearts of her family and friends.
Relatives and friends are invited to the viewing at the Bradley Funeral Home 601 Rt. 73 South at Evesham Road Marlton NJ on Saturday January 17, 2025 from 11 am -12 pm, where a Funeral Service will be held at 12 noon. Interment will be private. If desired, donations may be made in Judy's memory to either the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital stjude.org or The Michael J. Fox Foundation give.michaeljfox.org