John J. Kelly of Smallwood, NY, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 30, 2022 at the Achieve Rehab & Nursing Facility in Liberty after several months of declining health. He was 84.
The son of the late Charles Kelly and Naomi Wegman Kelly, he was born March 2, 1938 in Monticello and was the youngest of Charles and Naomi’s ten children. John’s commitment to public service was evidenced by his service in the United States Navy following high school. Thereafter, he continued to serve and protect as a New York City police officer, retiring in 1981 from the Midtown North Precinct. John’s last career path was as a driver, and later a sales representative for Short Line Bus Company. He was also a member of the US Army Reserves.
John is fondly remembered by his family and friends as having an infectious smile, wonderful sense of humor and a larger than life personality. He was a devoted family man and will be greatly missed by so many. He is survived by his wife of 52 years: Jean Weymouth Kelly, at home; his daughter, Jacqueline Kelly-Zelenitz and her husband Bradley Zelenitz; grandchildren Patrick John Kelly, Jr., Chloe Finn Zelenitz, Mackenzie Lane Zelenitz and Liam Joseph Kelly; and his sister Evelyn Brown. He was predeceased by his son, Patrick John Kelly.
Family and friends are invited to gather on Thursday, April 21 from 4:00 to 6:00pm at the VanInwegen-Kenny Funeral Home, 401 Broadway in Monticello with a memorial service starting at 6pm.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.
Arrangements are under the direction of the VanInwegen-Kenny, Inc. Funeral Home of Monticello. For additional information or to send an online condolence, please visit www.kennyfuneralhome.com.