Bernard J. "Bernie" Kelly, a 25 year resident of Medford and former longtime resident of Charlestown, entered into eternal life on Friday, June 7, 2013 at North Shore Medical Center in Salem following an extended illness. He was 83 years old.
Bernie was born in Boston on February 2, 1930, a son of the late Edward F. Kelly and Mary (Devir) Kelly. He grew up in Charlestown where he attended Boston Public Schools and graduated from Charlestown High School in 1948. He then attended Boston University for 2 years. Bernie enlisted into the United States Marine Corps on October 31, 1950 and served his country with pride and honor during the Korean Conflict. He was honorably discharged on June 16, 1952 with the rank of Corporal. Bernie worked for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts for over 37 years and retired as a Lab Inspector several years ago. Bernie was a member of The Old Charlestown Schoolboys Association and the Bunker Hill Council # 62, Knights of Columbus. He was past president of The Irish Heritage Society and a founding member of the Charlestown Militia. He was a honorary member of The Bunker Hillbillies of the Charlestown Boys Club and was a dedicated coach and volunteer to the Charlestown Youth Hockey program many years ago. Bernie enjoyed playing the banjo at many social events and would always attract a crowd for a sing-a-long. Bernie was a proud Townie and Marine and most of all a dedicated family man.
Bernie is the beloved and devoted husband of 58 years to Rita L. (Keigney) Kelly. He is the devoted father of Patricia Kelley and her husband Joe of Charlestown, Bernard J. Kelly Jr. and his wife Ann of Burlington, Mary Byrnes and her husband Gerry of Medford and Edward Kelly and his wife Christine of Melrose. He is the loving Boopa to 10 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. He is the beloved brother of Philip Kelly and his wife Rose of Melrose and the late Edward Kelly, Jack Kelly, Bill Kelly, Bridget Garvin and Margaret Rogan. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend Bernie's Funeral on Thursday, June 13, 2013 at 9 A.M. from The Carr Funeral Home, 220 Bunker Hill St. Charlestown followed by his Funeral Mass in St. Francis De Sales Church, 313 Bunker Hill St. Charlestown at 10 A.M. Interment at Oak Grove Cemetery in Medford. Visiting hours will be on Wednesday, June 12, 2013 from 4 to 8 P.M. in the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, kindly make a memorial donation in Bernie's name to The Charlestown Boys & Girls Club, 15 Green St. Charlestown, Mass. 02129.