Robert Joseph Kelly

At his home with family by his side, Robert Kelly went to meet his Lord & Savior on October 24, 2025. Robert (Bob) was the beloved husband of Eileen Kelly (already in heaven), and much loved Father of Brian Kelly (Elaine), Maureen Hickey (Jim), Robin Baltzer (Bill), and Kevin Kelly.

Bob was the cherished Grandfather of Katie, Caroline, and Kyra Kelly, brother of Jane McGrath, and fondly remembered by many nieces and nephews, two son-in-laws, and a daughter-in-law.

Bob survived the hardships of the Great Depression as a child, and after high school, worked many hours in a Cleveland factory before joining the Marine Corps and serving in the Korean War. Following his service, Bob attended Ohio State University, graduating in two and a half years. He was forever proud to call himself a veteran and a Buckeye.

Bob met Eileen Donahue while she was attending Ursuline College in Pepper Pike, Ohio. Upon Eileen’s graduation, they married and moved to Arlington, Virginia, where Bob began his career with the Federal Government.

Bob’s achievements with various government agencies included development of the first federal government recycling program, advocacy for disabled government workers when they didn’t have a voice, and the rollout of environmentally-friendly ink used in government printing.

Bob and Eileen had four children, Brian, Maureen, Robin and Kevin. Their boisterous household was filled with love and laughter, as well as a variety of animals including cats, hamsters and fish! Bob and Eileen were devoted parents, fiercely supportive of their children’s academic and sporting activities.

As devout Catholics, Bob and Eileen ensured that their children developed a strong faith by enrolling them at Saint Ann’s Elementary School and Bishop O’Connell High School.

Bob and Eileen were devoted grandparents, and loved being involved in their granddaughter’s endeavors. They found joy and pride in their granddaughter’s athletic pursuits, school activities, and the way all three approached life with fun and passion.

Bob and Eileen enjoyed staying active and became proficient at Pickleball, winning numerous gold medals in the Northern Virginia Senior Olympics for several years running!

They also travelled the world to visit their children and grandchildren with overseas trips including England, Germany, Austria, Italy, Israel, Qatar, and China. Stateside, their journeys took them to California, Texas, and Colorado. And their “home away from home” became Charlotte, North Carolina where three of their children resided.

Bob’s easy-going manner, his willingness to help anyone and everyone, and his unique sense of humor will be deeply missed by family, friends, and all who knew and loved him.