Jacqueline Jean Kelly

Jacqueline Jean Kelly, a devoted mother, grandmother, teacher, and friend, passed away on November 10, 2025, in Newport Beach, California. She was born on May 6, 1945, in Los Angeles, California, to her parents Gil and Mary Lou Dotson.

Jacqueline grew up in Southern California and attended Western High School in Anaheim. Through her brother Bob, she met her future husband, Joseph Lawrence Kelly, Jr. They later married and built a warm, loving home together, raising their two children, John Edward Kelly and Jennifer Jean Kelly.

Jacqueline spent many years as a preschool teacher, where her gentle and patient nature made her a natural with young children. She was also a dedicated homemaker, creating a household full of care, encouragement, and memorable family traditions. Animals were an important part of her life as well, and she lovingly cared for her pets over the years: Tuffy, Lady, Madi, Nico, Roxy, Django, and her cat Sophie.

Her family fondly remembers her taking John and his friends on countless outings—movies, bowling, the beach, and anywhere they hoped to go. She also enjoyed serving as a Brownie troop leader, a role that reflected her enthusiasm for guiding and supporting children.

Jacqueline had many hobbies she cherished. She enjoyed gardening, going to the beach, hiking, cooking, baking, attending church, and playing Solitaire, her favorite card game. She also loved swimming and was known to be a particularly strong swimmer. Above all, she was compassionate, with a warm heart and a genuine kindness that touched everyone who knew her.

She is preceded in death by her beloved husband Joseph Lawrence Kelly, Jr., her parents Gil and Mary Lou Dotson, and her brother Bob Dotson.

Jacqueline is survived by her children, John Kelly and Jennifer Kelly, and her grandchildren, Tori Kelly and Jordan Kelly, all of whom she loved dearly.

A graveside service will be held on Monday, December 1, 2025, at 12:30 p.m. at Westminster Memorial Park, followed by a reception in the Westminster Memorial Park hospitality room.

Jacqueline will be remembered for her warmth, her compassion, and the love she shared with her family and friends. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched and the memories she created.