James E. Kelly, 95, of Pinehurst, passed away at his home on Wednesday, November 7th.
A celebration of his life will be held at the Boles Funeral Home, 425 W. Pennsylvania Ave. Southern Pines on Tuesday, November 13th, at 3:00 p.m. The family will receive friends at the funeral prior to the service from 2:00 – 3:00.
Born in Ft. Worth, TX in 1923, he was the son of the late Cecil and Olive (Hester) Kelly. Jim was raised in Michigan and had entered the U.S. Navy during WWII. In 1947, he married Joan Dennett and together they moved to St. Petersburg, FL and raised their family. Jim had worked as a Mason, owning his business; originally Kelly Brothers Masonry and later, JK Masonry. He retired in 1976 and moved to Pinehurst. Jim was a loving father, grandfather and friend to all he knew.
Papy loved his family, loved his country and cherry pie. His hobbies were riding his Harley, roller blading, water skiing, woodworking and he was an avid golfer.
Jim is predeceased by his wife of 70 years, Joan Kelly. He is survived by his children: Kathy Sherman, husband Lee, Tricia Salebra, husband Charlie, Colleen Kelly, Jim Kelly, II, wife Tracy, and Chris Kelly. He was the grandfather of Mary, Jennifer, the late Corey, Ginny, Christine, Mark, Erin, Ashley Elle, Jimmy III, Kerri, Nina, Ryan, James, Anne – Marie and Kendal. He is also survived by his 23 great grandchildren, 1 great-great grandchild, and many loving Nieces, Nephews and friends. Jim was the brother of Fred Kelly and the late Christine, Juanita, J.P., Bob, Merle, Don and Lloyd.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Firsthealth Hospice Foundation at 150 Applecross Rd. Pinehurst, NC 28374 or to Veterans Motorcycle Club Pinehurst NC Chapter XV at 3674 Murdocksville Road West End, NC 27376
Services are entrusted to Boles funeral Home of Pinehurst
To send flowers or a remembrance gift to the family of James Emerson Kelly, please visit Boles’ Tribute Store.
