Michael Timothy Kelly

Born Michael Timothy Kelly, the second of 8 children, to James and Molly Kelly, he grew up in the Philadelphia area, and spent his college years at Fordham University in the Bronx, where he met the love of his life, Jacqueline Koenig. He joined the Jesuit Volunteer Corps in 1988, went to American Somoa, and discovered his calling in life was to be a teacher. He returned and married Jackie in 1991. They lived a joyous and happy life, full of laughter and music, in River Edge, New Jersey, for 34 years.

Mike was a cherished husband, and a beloved son, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend. A teacher at Secaucus High School for 35 plus years, he enriched the lives of every person he touched, his students most of all. His laughter and his music was present in everything he did, and his love for his family and his many, many friends brought the deepest joy.

Mike was predeceased by his father, his mother, and his eldest brother. He is survived by his wife of 34 years, 4 brothers and 2 sisters, 27 nieces and nephews, and many, many cousins.

Private Visitation for family only at Becker Funeral Home

A funeral Mass will be held at Our Lady of Mercy in Park Ridge, NJ on Monday September 15th at 10:00 am. All who knew and loved Mike are invited.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to a charity of your choice which supports the dignity and protection of the transgender community, especially the children, for whom he felt a great compassion.