Patricia Anne Kelly

Pat was born on December 21, 1942, in Brooklyn, New York, to the late John J. and Anne R. Kelly. She graduated from Catherine McAuley High School in Flatbush and soon after began what would become a remarkable, four-decade career at the New York Stock Exchange.

Starting as a clerk in 1961, Pat steadily rose through the ranks at a time when women were often discouraged from advancing in the financial industry. Through hard work, impeccable accuracy, and a deep understanding of the Exchange’s systems, she became an indispensable member of the organization. She ultimately earned the role of Assistant Controller, serving not just as a leader but as a mentor and role model to many younger women who followed her path.

Pat’s dedication to the Exchange and her colleagues was perhaps most powerfully demonstrated in the days following September 11th. On September 13th, while the city was still reeling, she returned to the Exchange to ensure that all employees received their paychecks on time—believing that, amid so much chaos and fear, removing even one worry from their lives was the most meaningful contribution she could make. Her actions reflected the loyalty, compassion, and steadiness that defined her entire career.

After retiring in 2003, Pat divided her time between Florida and New Jersey before settling permanently in Ormond Beach seven years ago. She especially cherished her years in Jersey City, where her home overlooked the skyline of Lower Manhattan—the place that shaped her professional life and held so many great memories. She loved the beach, enjoyed traveling widely, and valued every opportunity to see new places.

In Ormond Beach, Pat quickly became a beloved member of the community. She was active in the Ormond Beach Garden Club and took great joy in hosting a monthly ladies’ luncheon with her friends. Her warm nature, humor, and generous spirit made her an instant friend to many. She welcomed newcomers effortlessly, always making people feel included—whether they had known her for decades or only a short while. The qualities that made her a respected colleague also made her an exceptional friend: reliable, thoughtful, steady, and endlessly kind.

Pat adored her dogs, Reily and Maggie, who brought her years of companionship and happiness and were constant sources of comfort and joy.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, John J. Kelly (1988); and her sister, Nancy E. Kelly (2018). She is survived by her cousins Maureen, Kathleen, and James; and by her dearest friends of more than fifty years, Kathleen and Edward Kellerhals, and their daughters, Melissa Dahling and Erika Kellerhals, who knew and loved her their entire lives as “Aunt Pat.”

Donations in Pat’s memory may be made to:

• Stuart F. Meyer Hospice House c/o AdventHealth Hospice Care East Florida Foundation, 770 Granada Blvd. Suite 304, Ormond Beach, FL 32174.

or online at: https://www.classy.org/give/483743/#!/donation/checkout

A Funeral Service will be celebrated on Thursday, December 4th, 2025, 2:00PM at Craig-Flagler Palms Funeral Home, 511 Old Kings Rd S. Flagler Beach, Florida 32136.