Gary Stephen Kelly

Gary Stephen Kelly, aged 68, of Stratford, Ontario, passed away in Kissimmee, Florida on Saturday, February 24, 2024, after a short, intense battle with pneumonia and influenza. He was nearing the end of a vacation with family and friends when this occurred.

Gary was born on November 13, 1955, in Stratford, Ontario, and was son of the late John Vernon Kelly and the late Margaret Lillian Barclay.

After graduating from high school in St. Marys, he went to Fanshawe College in London, Ontario, where he studied Radio Broadcasting and Media. Gary worked for years in his family's restaurant business, and then went on to work at the Carpenter Shop Music Centre, Sears Department Store and Wendy's Restaurant.

Gary spent many years diligently researching his family tree history, believing it was important to know about the lives who came before him. He loved to talk about politics and enjoyed hobbies such as reading books and coin collecting. He had a strong faith in the Creator and attended Bethel Pentecostal Church in Stratford. In 2021, Gary entered into his well-deserved years of retirement.

Gary is survived by his beloved wife Ann (DeLarge) and sons, Nathan, John and Matthew.

He is survived by his siblings, Sharon Kelly, Edward Kelly, and Brenda (Karl) Douglas and was predeceased by his stepfather Wilfred Barclay, his sister Peggy Lou Ballantyne and his brother Brian Kelly. He is also survived by (Uncle) Emerson Martin and his wife (Aunt) Nora, Susan McIntosh (Maurice), Anne Streicker (Joe) in addition to many loving nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews.

Gary's departure comes as a great shock, and it is gravely felt by his entire family and countless others who knew and loved him. The family deeply appreciates your prayers and support during this difficult time and asks that, in lieu of flowers, you can make a donation to a charity of your choice. Please feel free to share your memories of our beloved Gary on the Grissom memorial website.

Upon his cremation in Kissimmee, Florida, his remains were returned home to Canada. We will be having a Celebration of Life on Saturday, April 20, 2024 from 2pm-4pm at Bethel Pentecostal Church located at 2988 Highway 7 & 8, Stratford, ON.

If you need any more information, please email Ann at [email protected]