Published in the March 30, 2018 edition
MELROSE — John J. Kelly Jr., 57, a resident of Melrose and formerly of Yucaipa, California, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 25, 2018 at the Kaplan Family Hospice House.
John was born in Boston on November 23, 1960, and raised in Melrose. He graduated from Melrose High School where he starred as a football, basketball, and track and field athlete. John and his wife Teresa lived in Yucaipa for many years where they raised a son, John, and daughter, Jessica. John worked in construction for a general contractor for many years.
John’s love for laughter was infectious. Pleasant and charming, he was very engaging and always had a joke ready, whether appropriate or not. He loved talking to people, offering a joke, or a random historical fact to make people smile. With his gregarious and kind nature, John made an immediate impact on people wherever he was. He always treated people as he would like to be treated. In his free time, John loved spending time with his three dogs, Porsche, Lucy and Bella, or spending time gardening. A sports lover, he took great pride in his Boston roots as a Celtics and Patriots fan. He also enjoyed spending time with his family on Cape Cod.
Above all, John’s pride and joy were his children. He was a source of positive support as a basketball coach for many years for daughter, Jessica and was forever proud of his son John for teaching in Vietnam. John truly lived for his children.
Intelligent, funny, and kind, John’s charm leaves a special mark on this world. His sudden loss leaves a great void, but his family will cherish his memory and carry on with his infectious smile and laughter.
John was the loving husband of Teresa A. (Gomez) Kelly with whom he shared 32 years of marriage. Beloved father of John J. Kelly III of California, and Jessica A. Kelly of Salem. Cherished son of Doris A. (Waddington) Kelly of Melrose and the late John J. Kelly. Devoted brother of Jeanne M. Smith and her husband Jerry of Melrose, Judith A. Kelly and her husband David Bowditch of Bedford, James E. Kelly and his wife Barbara of Griffin, Ga., Joyce E. Costello and her partner John Feehly of Billerica, and Jennifer L. Kelly of Gloucester. Also survived by several loving nieces, cousins and friends.
Relatives and friends gathered in honor and remembrance of John’s life for his funeral service at St. John’s Episcopal Church, 8 Prospect St., Saugus celebrated on Tuesday, March 27. For online tribute, or directions visit RobinsonFuneralHome.com.
