Joan Marie Kelly

Joan Marie Kelly

February 24, 2025

Sacramento, California - Joan Marie Kelly turned 90 on February 1st, 2025 and passed away on February 24th from natural causes. She transitioned peacefully into her new life with her long-time friend, caregiver, and advocate, Francisco Dominguez at her side.

Joan brought out the best in people and it was her habit to always see the good in others. Joan was a mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. She nurtured, encouraged, and cared for many people.

Joan was born and lived in Philadelphia before moving to Sacramento in the 1960s. She received her teaching credential from CSU Sacramento and chose to work locally with at risk pre-school children. She was known for bringing creativity and imagination into the classroom, and sought to plant the seeds for critical thinking in her young students. Joan valued each student as a unique individual and appreciated the beauty of diversity. She listened carefully to what each person communicated and conveyed genuine respect.

Joan was an inspiring social justice activist who was consistently involved and a strong force in the local peace movement. Joan hosted a free educational film series for 20 years called "Central American Action Committee Goes to The Movies." Joan was the founder of The Sacramento area chapter of the Raging Grannies which engaged in social protest through song. Joan brought humor and fun into everything she did. Her charisms of joy and love for life were communicated through her smile and graceful presence. Her passion to build a kinder, more just world will live on in all those she mentored and loved.

There will be a celebration of Joan's life on Saturday, April 5th at 1 p.m. at Sacramento Friends Meeting House.