He moved with his family to Yakima, Washington in 1947. In 1951, he met Carolyn Scogin his future wife. They were married on June 20, 1952. He passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, March 8, 2014, with his loving wife of 61 years by his side just the way he wanted his life to end.
James spent his entire working career in the fruit industry and receiving respect from his peers. He enjoyed camping and fishing with his family when time allowed. He loved sports, and was a dedicated Seattle Mariners fan, and spent numerous summer nights watching major league men's fast pitch softball.
In retirement he enjoyed gardening, tending to his cows and calves, raising walnuts, cherries and about anything that grows.
One of his greatest loves in life where his grandchildren, and later on, it became his great grandchildren. He always enjoyed his coffee time with “The Guy's" at the Gromore Store. Most of them still farming, at least while enjoying coffee and their friendship from years gone by.
James is survived by his wife Carolyn; sister, Geneva Norvell; brother, Frank Kelly Jr.; his children, Dennis (Heather) Kelly, Yakima, Derek (Sharon) Kelly, Yakima, Kandy (Kent) McGuire, Yakima, and Kevin Kelly, Newport, OR; grandchildren, Ryan Kelly, Aaron Kelly, Heidi Neirman, Tyler Kelly, Matt McGuire, Sari Morgan, Joey McGuire, Seth McGuire, James Kelly, Keith Kelly, and 11 great grandchildren.
A graveside service will be at 11a.m. Friday, March 14, 2014 in West Hills Memorial Park. A Memorial service will follow at noon at the West Valley Church 1107 Wide Hollow Road, Yakima.
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