James William Kelly, Jr.

James (Jimmy) William Kelly, Jr., 82, of Marietta, GA, went to be with his Lord and Savior on October 26, 2025. Born in Marianna, FL, on May 29, 1943, he was the son of James and Alice Kelly. Jimmy graduated from Marianna High School in 1961 and furthered his education at Chipola Junior College before attending the University of Florida, where he graduated in 1966 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Industrial Engineering. He later received his Master of Science Degree in Systems Management from the Florida Institute of Technology.

He began his career with Boeing at the Kennedy Space Center, working on NASA's Apollo 11 / Saturn V Program in Cape Canaveral, FL. He then worked for Allis Chalmers in Gadsden, AL, before starting his 30-year career with the US Postal Service in Greensboro, NC. He later retired in Atlanta, GA, as the Manager of the Bulk Mail Center.

Jimmy was married to Rebecca (Becky) Pelham Kelly for an incredible 59 years, during which they built a loving family together. He is survived by two daughters, Shannon Kelly Dunlap (Doug) of Marietta, GA, and Betsy Kelly Mileski (Steve) of Richmond, VA. He was a proud grandfather to four grandchildren: Josie Dunlap, Garrett Dunlap, Seth Mileski, and Sierra (Sisi) Mileski.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James W. Kelly Sr. and Alice White Kelly. Jimmy is survived by his sister, Shirley Kelly Rose of Montgomery, AL; his nephew, William Livingston of Montgomery, AL; and his niece, Kelly Ann Carlton (Jerry) of Canyon Lake, TX. He is also survived by his brother and sister-in-law, Patrick and Carol Pelham of Graceville, FL; nieces Kerri Pelham Barfield (David) and Holly Pelham, both of Graceville, FL; and nephew Matthew Pelham (Kristen) of Bainbridge, GA.

In celebrating the life of Jimmy Kelly, we reflect on the profound impact he had on all who knew him. His journey through life was filled with love, family, and faith. Jimmy embodied the essence of love through his long marriage to Becky and his devotion to his daughters and grandchildren, nurturing them with kindness and wisdom. Grounded in his beliefs, he taught his family the importance of faith, resilience, and compassion.

Jimmy was described as fun, kind, and humble. He enjoyed reading, traveling, playing sports, and trying new things during his retirement. He also enjoyed following the Florida Gators and the Atlanta Braves.

While we mourn his passing, we also celebrate the joyous moments shared with him, remembering the laughter, stories, and lessons he imparted. Jimmy’s legacy will continue through his family, who carry forward his values and love. As we gather to honor him, let us find comfort in our shared memories and the truth that he is now in heaven. As we say goodbye to James (Jimmy) William Kelly, Jr., let us hold close the memories that warm our hearts and the teachings that guide our paths.

Celebration of Life services for Jimmy Kelly will be held at West Ridge Church, located at 3522 Hiram Acworth Highway, Dallas, GA 30157, on Saturday, November 22, 2025. The services will begin with visitation at 11:00 AM, followed by the Funeral Service at 12:00 Noon. A reception will take place at 1:00 PM to honor and celebrate Jimmy’s life.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to the West Ridge Church Benevolence Fund (westridge.com) or Samaritan's Purse (samaritanspurse.org).