On Sunday, June 6 2021 John C. Kelly passed away at his home, devoted husband of Carol L. Kelly. Knowing how dear he was to them, John waited until he had visited with each of his daughters and their families, and his brother and his family before he said goodbye.
John was born in Baltimore in 1939 and grew up in Rodgers Forge. Sixty years ago, two weeks before he graduated from college, he met Carol. He enlisted in the Army and four years later, after Carol graduated from college they were married in Richmond. John and Carol raised their family in Loch Raven Village, where he taught the girls to ride bikes, play softball, and how to drive. After he retired, John walked and bicycled daily and knew the names of his neighbors, their kids, and their dogs (for whom he usually had a dog treat in his pocket). He was ever-present on the sidelines, in the audience, and at the celebration of his grandkids' games, meets, performances, and milestones.
He was generous, kind, funny and compassionate. No one and nothing mattered more to John than his family, and he demonstrated this daily, through acts small and large. He was greatly loved in return.
John is survived by Carol, his wife of 56 years; daughters, Kimberly Kelly, Peggy Thorne (James Thorne, Sr.), and Heather Kelly; six grandchildren, Molly, Kara, Jack and James Thorne, and Emily and Maggie Givens; and his brother Arthur C. Kelly (Diane). He is predeceased by his parents, Eileen and Arthur C. Kelly, Sr., and best furiend, Minnie Agog.
Though his family will celebrate John’s life privately, the family asks that you honor his memory by petting a dog, and spending time with people you love. In lieu of flowers, kindly consider making a donation to a charity of your choice.