James (Jimmy) William Kelly, Jr.
James (Jimmy) William Kelly, Jr.
James (Jimmy) William Kelly, Jr., 82, of Marietta, GA, went to be with his Lord and Savior on October 26, 2025. Born in Marianna, FL, on May 29, 1943, he was the son of James and Alice Kelly. Jimmy graduated from Marianna High School in 1961 and furthered his education at Chipola Junior College before attending the University of Florida, where he graduated in 1966 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Industrial Engineering. He later received his Master of Science Degree in Systems Management from the Florida Institute of Technology.
He began his career with Boeing at the Kennedy Space Center, working on NASA's Apollo 11 / Saturn V Program in Cape Canaveral, FL. He then worked for Allis Chalmers in Gadsden, AL, before starting his 30-year career with the US Postal Service in Greensboro, NC. He later retired in Atlanta, GA, as the Manager of the Bulk Mail Center.
Jimmy was married to Rebecca (Becky) Pelham Kelly for an incredible 59 years, during which they built a loving family together. He is survived by two daughters, Shannon Kelly Dunlap (Doug) of Marietta, GA, and Betsy Kelly Mileski (Steve) of Richmond, VA. He was a proud grandfather to four grandchildren: Josie Dunlap, Garrett Dunlap, Seth Mileski, and Sierra (Sisi) Mileski.
He was preceded in death by his parents, James W. Kelly and Alice Kelly.
Jimmy is also survived by his sister, Shirley Kelly Rose of Montgomery, AL, along with his nephew, William Livingston of Montgomery, AL, and his niece, Kelly Ann Carlton of Canyon Lake, TX.
In celebrating the life of Jimmy Kelly, we reflect on the profound impact he had on all who knew him. His journey through life was filled with love, family, and faith. Jimmy embodied the essence of love through his long marriage to Becky and his devotion to his daughters and grandchildren, nurturing them with kindness and wisdom. Grounded in his beliefs, he taught his family the importance of faith, resilience, and compassion.
Jimmy was described as fun, kind, and humble. He enjoyed reading, traveling, playing sports, and trying new things during his retirement. He also enjoyed following the Florida Gators and the Atlanta Braves.
While we mourn his passing, we also celebrate the joyous moments shared with him, remembering the laughter, stories, and lessons he imparted. Jimmy’s legacy will continue through his family, who carry forward his values and love. As we gather to honor him, let us find comfort in our shared memories and the truth that he is now in heaven. As we say goodbye to James (Jimmy) William Kelly, Jr., let us hold close the memories that warm our hearts and the teachings that guide our paths.
There will be a reception on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at 10:00 AM in the Fellowship Hall at the First United Methodist Church in Graceville followed by a graveside service at 11:00 AM at Marvin Chapel Cemetery to celebrate the life of James W. Kelly, Jr., with James and Lipford Funeral Home directing.