James J. Kelly

Mr. James J. Kelly, 73, of East Sandwich, formerly of Watertown, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, April 16, 2014. He was the beloved husband of Merle (Quevillon) Kelly with whom he shared nearly 47 years of marriage.

Born in Boston and raised in Watertown, Jim was the son of the late James L. and Catherine (Brennick) Kelly. He graduated from the former St. Patrick’s High School Class of 1959. In 1965, Jim began his employment with the Watertown Fire Department. He retired as a Lieutenant in 1999 after 34 years of service to the Watertown community. Jim was always quick to bring a smile to the face of his family and friends by his singing, thoughtfulness and his great personality. In addition to being a devoted husband, Jim was a loving and adoring father and grandfather. Growing up, he was the youngest of 9, having 8 older sisters. In regards to his older sisters, Jim would affectionately comment by saying, “Hand-me-downs were always tough”. His family and friends remember him as being a very generous individual. He was a dedicated volunteer always helping others in need without ever expecting recognition. Jim was loving and kind. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

In addition to Merle, Jim is survived by his children, Tara Kelly and her spouse Elizabeth of VT, Matthew Kelly and spouse Jennifer T. of SC, and Jennifer Kelly and spouse Anne Marie of Shirley, MA. Grandchildren, Olivia, Thomas, Trevor, Hunter, Brennan and Julia. He also leaves his sisters, Alice Griffin of Lexington and Patricia Smith of Concord and many nieces and nephews. He was the brother of the late Helen, Rita, Irene, Mildred, Lillian and Nancy.

Visiting Hours will be held on Friday from 4-7PM in the Nickerson-Bourne Funeral Home, 154 Route 6A, Sandwich. Jim’s Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday at 12PM in Corpus Christi Parish, 324 Quaker Meeting House Rd. East Sandwich. Relatives and friends invited. In lieu of flowers, those desiring may make memorial contributions to the Sandwich Food Pantry, P.O. Box 1824, Sandwich, MA 02563, The Samaritans on Cape Cod & The Islands, P.O. Box 65, Falmouth, Massachusetts 02541, The Corpus Christi Parish in East Sandwich or St. Bonaventures of Thoreau, Post Office Box 610 Thoreau, NM 87323-0610.