James J. Kelly, age 95 of Philadelphia, PA passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family on Friday, July 10, 2026.

James was born in Philadelphia, PA to the late Morgan and Mary Kelly (nee Robinson) on April 30, 1931. He was a proud graduate of Girard College, Class of 1949. Jim went on to earn his bachelor's degree in accounting from La Salle College. He spent his career working as an accountant for the Philadelphia Water Department in accounting where he retired after 28 years. He also started his own small tax return business in the 1970s, which continued to grow until his retirement at 90 years old. He was a friend you could always count on. Jim was a proud US Navy veteran and served during the Korean War. He enjoyed going to his favorite diners, meeting his fellow Girard Alumnae for breakfast, and spending time with his large family. It wouldn’t be unusual to find Jim spending time at the MacSwiney Club in Jenkintown, PA where he was a proud lifelong member. Our dad’s love of his Irish heritage and dedication to Ireland cannot be understated. He was an Irishman through and through. Jim received many recognitions related to his support of Irish causes and Irish Northern Aid.

James is survived by his children, Grace (Chris), Maureen, Kathy, Colleen, Susan, Jim (Barbara), and Sheila (Tom), along with 22 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. He is predeceased by his wife Grace Doherty of County Donegal, Ireland whom he was married to for more than 45 years before her death in 2004. Also, predeceased by his father Morgan Kelly of County Wexford, Ireland, mother Mary Robinson of County Mayo, Ireland, sister Helen Murphy, and brother Jack Kelly.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend James’ visitation from 10:30 – 11:30 AM at St. Christopher Roman Catholic Church, 13301 Proctor Rd, Philadelphia, PA 19116 where fond memories can be shared. Funeral Mass begins at 11:30 AM with Fr. Philip Bochanski officiating.

Jim will be laid to rest with the love of his life, his wife Grace at Resurrection Cemetery, 5201 Hulmeville Rd, Bensalem, PA 19020. Military honors will be rendered.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the MacSwiney Club, 503 Greenwood Avenue, Jenkintown, PA 19046.