James Vincent “Jim” Kelly, born on September 12, 1936, in Baltimore, Maryland, passed away peacefully on February 7, 2026, in Ellicott City, Maryland. He was 89 years old.
Jim shared a remarkable life with his beloved wife of 64 years, Frances (nee Glowacki) Kelly. Together they built a strong and loving family that was the center of Jim’s world. He was a devoted father to Christine (David) Holmes, Brian (Chargenia) Kelly, Monica (John) Harris, and Regina (Mark) Hobbs. He also cherished the memory of his eldest son Paul Kelly, who preceded him in death.
Jim took great pride in his role as a grandfather and found immense joy in spending time with his grandchildren: Amanda, Kimberly, Nicholas, Katherine, James, William, and Brianna. His presence in their lives will be deeply missed and fondly remembered. He is also survived by five beloved great-grandchildren, Jonathan, Evelyn, Eleanor, Gwendolyn, and Autumn.
Born and raised in Baltimore, Jim remained rooted in Maryland throughout his life, graduating from Calvert Hall High School and then Loyola College, and raising his family in Waldorf before retiring to Ellicott City. He began a lifelong enjoyment of stamp collecting as a young boy. His journey included a long career as a social worker, serving first the Baltimore and then the Washington DC communities from 1961 to 1995, reflecting a deep connection to the local area.
Friends and family may gather at the Harry H. Witzke's Family Funeral Home on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, from 2 pm to 4 pm and 6 pm to 8 pm. A Mass of Christian burial will be held on Thursday, February 12, 2026, at 10:30 am at Church of the Resurrection, Chapel, 3175 Paulskirk Drive, in Ellicott City. Interment following at Holy Rosay Cemetery.
To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of James Vincent Kelly, please visit our Tree Store.