This memorial website was created to remember John "Jerry" G. Kelly who was born in Toulon, Illinois on May 22, 1928 and passed away on July 8, 2008. He will live forever in our memories and hearts.
John “Jerry” G. Kelly, 80, of Peoria, passed away at 12:45 a.m. on Tuesday, July 8, 2008, at OSF St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria.
Jerry was born in Toulon, on May 22, 1928, a son of John Joseph and Ella T. Dunn Kelly. He married Ruth Lynn Kyle on November 28, 1963 at the Cathedral of St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception in Peoria. She survives.
He is also survived by his son, Thomas J. and daughter, Teresa L. Kelly, both of Peoria. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Mary Sarah Morrow.
Jerry farmed with his father in rural Toulon, before moving to Bradford. While living in Bradford, he was employed at the grain elevator, prior to moving to Peoria in the early 1960’s.
Jerry was the owner and operator of Kelly’s Barbershop in Peoria, for over 45 years. He was a former bowler in the St. Philomena Bowling League and was a long-time sponsor of bowling teams at St. Boniface/St. Ann parish.
Jerry was a parishioner of St. Philomena Catholic Church in Peoria and a member of the Knights of Columbus St. Jude Council #4333 in Peoria.
He enjoyed gardening, bowling, square dancing and showing livestock, while growing up in Stark County. He was a fan of the Chicago Cubs, the Chicago Bears and enjoyed going on vacation with his family to Disney World in Florida. He also had a strong love for his girls, Ginger and Taffy, the family’s pet dogs.
Jerry loved going to work and interacting with his faithful clients. He had a strong faith as a devote Catholic, was loyal, strong and had a “dry” sense of humor. He was a wonderful family man and a devoted husband and father.
Jerry’s Funeral Mass will be at 1 p.m. on Friday, July 11, 2008, at Resurrection Mausoleum Chapel in Peoria, with Fr. Donald R. Henderson celebrating the Mass. Visitation will be from 5:30 to 7:30 on Thursday, July 10, 2008, at Clary Funeral Home in Peoria, with a Scripture Service at 7:30. Entombment will be at Resurrection Mausoleum, following the Mass. Memorial contributions may be directed to St. Philomena Catholic Church.
| Jeanne Masson Webb |
Cousin |
July 14, 2008 |
Ruth, Tom and Teresa ~
You have been in my thoughts and prayers these past days. My sister Linda has been keeping us posted and she mentioned the slide show. I just viewed it and it is a very heart warming legacy of your husband and dad. May God bless all of you and I will continue to pray for peace in your hearts.
| Jeanne Masson Webb |
Cousin |
July 14, 2008 |
Ruth, Tom and Teresa,
You
| Rebekah Weber |
Medi Park Pharmacy Tech |
July 12, 2008 |
I have had the esteemed pleasure of knowing Mr. Kelly for the past 8 years. He was always laughing and had a story to tell. He always brightened my day and complimented me when he came in. He was jovial and boisterous. I even had the pleasure of running into him on the City Link bus when my daughter and I were going to her tumbling class. He would tell her she was beautiful in her sparkling leotard and tutu. He had such a big smile and a warm greeting. I was concerned when his health began to fail in the past years. He will be missed greatly. He was a good friend. I am glad I was blessed with the little time I had with him. My prayers are with Ruth, Teresa and Tom. God took an angel home Tuesday. Wishing you only loving memories and future comforts, Rebekah Weber
| Bob & Vicki Johnson |
old friends |
July 11, 2008 |
I'm not sure if you'll remember, but I was Bill &Maryan Arthur's daughter and I remember many times we enjoyed the families at Tom and Mary's. Just wanted to offer condolences to the family for Jerry. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
| Jennifer Wilkes |
friend |
July 10, 2008 |
Teresa and family,
I know how close your family is and how hard this has got to be for you. You are a strong person and will make it through this. You are all in everyone's thoughts and prayers.
God bless,
Jennifer Wilkes
