Michael L. Kelly

Michael L. Kelly, died peacefully on Monday, July 29, 2024, exactly 92 years from his date of birth on July 29, 1932.

He was born in Hughestown to Anna McHugh Kelly and Leo Kelly. Shortly after his birth, Michael's mother died and he and his sister, Leona, were raised by his grandmother, Bridget Care Kelly.

Michael earned a bachelor's degree from East Stroudsburg Teachers College. After college, Michael served in the U.S. Army 3rd Infantry Division and was chosen for the Presidential Honor Guard, Washington, D.C.

Michael began his teaching career at Elk Lake Joint School, where the students dedicated their yearbook to him. He continued his studies and received a master's degree from Marywood University and a Ph.D. from the University of Pittsburgh. Michael became a member of the faculty at Luzerne County Community College and was a chairperson of the Humanities Department.

Taking a brief leave from teaching, Michael was selected to serve as a consultant to the Commissioner of Higher Education, Pennsylvania Department of Education. Returning to East Stroudsburg University, Michael taught education classes to undergraduate and graduate students. The students voted him teacher of the year.

In addition to teaching, Michael and his wife, Shirley, owned and operated Kelly Antiques in the Poconos. The business lasted for 20 years and was known for unique and distinctive pieces.

While he pursued his long and successful career, Michael raised five children.

Retirement found Michael and his wife, Shirley, at the Seabrook, an independent living facility in Hilton Head Island. Michael was sharp witted and told a great funny story.

He lived a good life and had no regrets. Often he quoted and lived by Dylan Thomas' poem "... do not go gentle into that good night, rage, rage against the dying of the light." He will be dearly missed.

Michael had three daughters, Kim Ballman and her husband. Steve, Annapolis, Md.; Colleen Kelly, Kernersville, N.C.; Kate Cody and her husband, Michael, Hilton Head Island, S.C.; two sons, Kevin Kelly and his wife, Pat, Delray Beach, Fla.; and Christopher Kelly, Swiftwater; 10 grandchildren, Bridget Duffie, Jill Harrill, Marshall Cody, Christopher Kelly, Michael Kelly, Peter Kelly, Alex Kelly, Billy Dunlap, Emily Hill and Anna Kelly; and six great-grandchildren. The family is also grateful to Cynthia Evans, a friend who cared for Michael during his final years.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Shirley; sister, Leona; parents; and grandmother.

Private funeral services are arranged by Islandfuneralhome.com.