Junior Kelly

Junior G Kelly, born on March 21, 1931, passed away on August 11, 2022, at the age of 91. Junior accepted the Lord, his savior and is strolling the streets of Heaven. He is preceded in death by his parents, Lillie & William Kelly, three brothers, Luther, Richard, and James Kelly, nephews Danny Kelly, Buddy Gibson and niece Nesha Gibson. He is survived by his loving wife of 70 years, Frances Kelly, caring sister; Betty Obert, sons; Dennis (Teresa), Bobby (Tawni), and Scott (Kelli). His grandchildren, Jeremy Kelly, Karen (Shane) Matheny, Tiana (Mikey) McCarthy, Maddi (Charlie) Busch, Trace Kelly as well as his five great grandchildren, Taylor Kelly, Ashton Kelly, Mallory Matheny, Evan Matheny, and Aubrey Kelly all who affectionately called him Poppa Jr or Poppa in addition to many nieces and nephews. Junior enjoyed a long and happy life. He was loved by everyone who knew him. A wonderful, kind, hardworking, and caring husband, brother, father, grandfather, great grandfather, uncle, and friend. He spent most of his life working at the family business, “Kelly’s Market”. He always enjoyed playing cards with family and friends. In younger years, he and his brother, James, enjoyed racing go carts. He loved watching Ohio State basketball and football, and often called his nephew, Jack during OSU football games.  When ice hockey came to Columbus, he began taking his family to the games, and instilled a love for hockey. His children took up ice skating so they could play hockey on frozen ponds.  Although he gave it 100%, he wasn’t a very good ice skater! Junior was a veteran of the US Air Force. Once he retired, he began woodworking which included making handcrafted wood flag cases. As with most things he attempted he became very proficient. He really loved making furniture and providing family and friends beautiful pieces as he honed his woodworking skills. He even began woodworking projects for profit.  He enjoyed his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren especially during holidays and when attending their countless life events.  He kept a garden during summer months, providing green beans, tomatoes, and cucumbers for his family. Because of his dedication to gardening, Momma’s green beans and pickles became a family holiday favorite. All this, because two people fell in love over 70 years ago.  Each other’s partners for Life and Eternity. He will forever be known a great role model for all those who were fortunate to be touched by his life and kind gestures. His family cherished and adored him.  Our memories will keep him close at heart till we meet again.

A Graveside Service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, August 16, 2022, at Violet Cemetery 180 E. Columbus Street, Pickerington, Ohio with Pastor Tim Stevens officiating. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to: South Columbus Freewill Baptist Church, 632 Hilock Road, Columbus, Ohio 43207.  Arrangements with GRAUMLICH FUNERAL HOME, 1351 South High St., Columbus, Ohio. To leave an online condolence for the family, please visit Junior’s tribute page at www.graumlichfuneralhome.com