Published in the February 5, 2016 edition
MELROSE — John J. Kelley passed away at his home in Melrose on Jan. 29. He was 81 years of age.
John was born in Malden to the late John and Esther (Jordan) Kelley and was raised in Malden. He graduated from Malden High School, Class of 1952, where he met his high school sweetheart who became the love of his life for over 60 years. After graduating from Boston University, he served his country with pride in the U.S. Army during the Korean War from 1954-1956.
Mr. Kelley worked in hospital administration for many years at the Malden Hospital, Choate Hospital in Woburn and in Boston. John also worked as the assistant director of the Melrose Housing Authority for over 10 years. He has been a resident of Melrose since 1964, was a longtime member of St. Mary Church, coached Little League in Melrose and was a member of the Melrose YMCA for many years. John loved sports, enjoyed going to high school games, but most of all he loved going to all his sons and grandsons’ games. Mr. Kelley enjoyed boating, the ocean, going on whale watches and liked to do puzzles. John also loved spending time with his family.
Mr. Kelley was the beloved husband of 59 years to Patricia (Shinay) Kelley. He was the loving father of the late Scott Kelley. He is also survived by his sons Kris Kelley and his wife Tammy of South Carolina; Gregg Kelley and his wife Laura of San Francisco; Rand Kelley of Melrose; and Glen Kelley of Boston. He was the devoted grandfather of Andrew, Shane, Gregg Jr., Jake and Ryan Kelley. He was the caring brother of Frank Kelley and his wife Nina of Everett and the late Mary Cannon and her husband Richard of North Carolina. He is also survived by several nieces, nephews and friends.
A Mass of Christian Burial was held at St. Mary Church, Herbert Street, Melrose, on Wednesday, Feb. 3, followed by a burial at Wyoming Cemetery in Melrose. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made in John’s name to NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) 422 8th Street SE, Washington DC 20003 or www.namidc.org. To send a message of condolence, visit www.gatelyfh.com. Arrangements by Gately Funeral Home, Melrose.
