Mary Ann Kelly

First of four children born to Mabel C. and Edward J. Kelly of Trenton.

Mary Ann graduated from St. Anthony's Grammar School, Cathedral High School, and Caldwell University. She earned her Master's degree in Library Science from Drexel University. During the summers, Mary Ann studied at Princeton University and in Sligo, Ireland. One year, Mary Ann taught as a Fulbright teacher at St. Joseph's school in Wallasey, England.

Mary Ann taught 37 years in the Trenton School District at different levels, retiring as a Media Specialist from Gregory School in 1988.

Mary Ann was a Head Librarian of the New Jersey State Library on Saturdays, a member of the Trenton Historical Society, The Trent House, a friend to many charities, and an active parishioner of St. Francis, Brant Beach and St. Elizabeth Seton, Golden Gate, Florida.

Mary Ann enjoyed traveling extensively both in the United States and abroad. Some of her favorite trips were Machu Picchu, the Gallapogos Islands, and the Easter Islands. It was on these trips that MaryAnn was able to see many creatures in their natural habitats.

She was an avid reader and had extensive collections of books and art. Her fields of interest were history and mysteries. She loved attending author book signings and had the opportunity to meet Jane Goodall at one of them. Another love was the theater. Mary Ann thoroughly enjoyed trips to New York and attended many Broadway shows.

Her love of animals was known by all who knew her. She especially loved her furry son; a Bichon named Jean Jacques, affectionately known as JJ.

Predeceased by her brother Edward J. Kelly Jr. and her sister Virgina Kelly, Mary Ann is survived by her sister, Patricia E. Kelly of Surf City and Naples, Florida, her sister-in-law Edy of Colorado and her nephews Shawn (Sandi) of Australia, Dan (Elisa) of Wisconsin, Joe (Trina) of California, and her nieces Kathleen of California, and Jen (Tom Gruber) of Colorado, and 11 grand nieces and nephews.

A mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 11 o'clock Thursday, October 23 at St. Thomas of Villanova Catholic Church in Surf City. Calling hours will be at the church from 9:30-11 Thursday morning. Burial will be in St. Mary's Cemetery, Trenton, on Friday, October 24 at 11 a.m.

The family requests memorial contributions to: Surf City First Aid Volunteer Fire and EMT Squad 713 North Long Beach Blvd. Surf City, NJ 08008-5254.

Condolences may be sent to www.shinnfunerhome.com