John T. “Jack” Kelly passed away peacefully in his home on Saturday, July 8, 2017, at the age of 93, with his beloved wife of 66 years, Winifred (nee Dalton), by his side. Born in Philadelphia, Jack lived over 30 years in New York City. He and Winnie have owned a home in Ocean Beach, Toms River Township since 1963 and resided there for over 25 years.
Jack proudly served his country in the US Navy as a quartermaster on PT boats during the Second World War in the Pacific Theater. He was awarded 5 campaign stars and the Philippine Presidential Unit Citation. To his family, both Jack’s service to his country in the Second World War and his life embodied what Tom Brokaw referred to in his book, “The Greatest Generation.”
Upon his return from the Navy, Jack joined the International Longshoreman’s Association, eventually being elected as Treasurer of the United Weighers and Samplers Local #3. From 1977 to 1985, Jack was Weigher in Charge of all operations for North Hatteras Weighing, Inc.
Jack was a member of the New Jersey Shore Irish American Club, the President’s Club of his alma mater, LaSalle College High School, Deborah Heart and Lung Foundation – Tradewinds Chapter, Knights of Columbus – Council 8415, and PT Boats, Inc.
Jack was proud of his heritage, his country, his faith and the values that gave meaning to his entire life. His quiet presence and gentle strength will be missed by all who knew and loved him. Saint Francis deSales expressed these sentiments most beautifully: “There is nothing so strong as gentleness, and nothing so gentle as real strength.”
In addition to Winifred, his beloved wife, Jack is survived by eight nephews and one niece, and several grand nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents, John and Beatrice Kelly, his sister Marie Deloughery of Philadelphia and his brother Cornelius Kelly of Stratford.
The family will receive friends Tuesday 4-7pm at the Timothy E. Ryan Home for Funerals, 809 Central Ave., Seaside Park, NJ. A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered Wednesday 10:30am at the Parish of St. Pio, Lavallette, NJ. Burial to follow at St. Joseph Cemetery, Toms River.
Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.ryanfuneralhome.com.