Albert J. “Kel” Kelly Jr., 79, of Reamstown, passed away Friday, July 26, 2019 at Lancaster General Hospital.
Kel was born in Philadelphia on May 7, 1940, a son to the late Dorothy (McMullin) Kelly and Albert Kelly; and was the husband of Margaret A. (McElrone) Kelly of Reamstown.
Kel was a 1958 graduate of Monsignor Bonner High School, and later attended St. Joseph’s University in Philadelphia.
A dedicated and hardworking employee, Kel offered his services to JCPenney for 35 years before retiring. During his tenure, Kel worked at various locations across multiple states, including Upper Darby; Rockland, Maine; and Sturbridge, Mass.; before he served as store manager in Framingham, Mass., and Ephrata.
Kel was a kind, passionate individual who cared deeply for his family, friends and community. An avid volunteer in the Reamstown area, Kel spent much of his time post-retirement supporting the Reamstown Park, making sure it was a safe and respectable place for kids to enjoy their own time.
That passion also carried over into Kel’s love of music and sport; Kel had collected thousands of records throughout his life. Kel was also an ardent supporter of the Philadelphia 76ers, Eagles, Flyers and Phillies.
Kel is survived by his wife: Margaret; children: Kathy, Warren, Patti (Tom), Paul, Anne (Tom) and Kim; eight grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren, with a fifth on the way. Kel is also survived by his brother: Larry (Jane); and sisters: Dottie and Pat (Dan).
Kel was predeceased by his sister: Kathy.
Friends and family are invited to gather for a viewing on Thursday, Aug. 1, at the Gravenor Home for Funerals, 100 W. Main St., Ephrata, from 9 to 10:30 a.m., followed by Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. at Our Mother of Perpetual Help Church, 320 Church Ave., Ephrata.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Lung Association at lung.org/donate.
To offer condolences, visit gravenorhomeforfunerals.com.
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