Joseph Thomas Kelly

Joseph T. Kelly, 90, passed away peacefully in his sleep on January 2, 2025, at his home in Clemmons, NC. Born on October 20, 1934, in Buffalo, NY, Joe lived a life marked by dedication to his family, faith, and community.

Joe grew up in Buffalo, where he attended Canisius High School before earning his degree from Canisius College. After graduation, he proudly served his country as a First Lieutenant in the U.S. Army. On June 20, 1959, Joe married the love of his life, Regina (née Curry), beginning a beautiful journey together that spanned 66 years.

Joe dedicated 40 years of his professional life to Republic Steel, which later became LTV Steel. He balanced his work with a deep love for his family, spending his evenings coaching little league baseball, supporting swim teams, and participating in competitive bowling leagues. An avid golfer, Joe realized a lifelong dream in his later years, settling into a home on a golf course and playing regularly with cherished friends until his final days.

Proud of his Irish heritage, Joe found joy in sharing Irish traditions with his family and friends. The music of the Irish Rovers often filled his home, creating a soundtrack of laughter, stories, and cherished memories. Joe was also a devoted fan of Notre Dame football and the Buffalo Bills, cheering on his teams with his signature enthusiasm and a twinkle in his eye.

Joe is preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Mary Hofmann Murphy. He is survived by his wife, Regina; their five children: Kathy (Greg) Benson, Joanne (John) Nodecker, Mike (Katie) Kelly, Tom (Laura) Kelly, and Jean (Jerry) Waters; 12 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. Joe’s legacy of love, laughter, and kindness will forever live on in the hearts of his family and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A Funeral Mass will be held at Holy Family Catholic Church, 4820 Kinnamon Rd., Clemmons, NC 27012, on Friday, January 10, 2025, at 11:00 AM. A reception to celebrate Joe’s life will follow at Salem Glen Country Club, 1000 Glen Day Dr., Clemmons, NC 27012 from 12:30PM to 2:30PM.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Greater Gift at greatergift.org, reflecting Joe’s spirit of generosity.

Rest in peace, Joe. May the music of the Irish Rovers play on, and may your Irish eyes keep smiling down on us all.