Jean Marie Kelly

Mrs. Kelly, a native of Hellertown, PA, was 87.

Jean graduated from the Bridgeport Hospital School of Nursing in 1956 and rose to the position of Head Nurse. A Captain in the Air Force, her decade-long service as a nurse saw her working around the world, with her last service in Madrid, Spain. Following her military service, she went to the University of Pennsylvania to complete her bachelor’s degree.

She married the love of her life, James Kelly, in January 1968. They recently celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary. After she was married, she continued her career working in the nursing field. She also taught at Bullard Havens in Bridgeport.

Music was a special part of her and a lifelong passion. She sang in a number of choirs, including the Songsters in Shelton and The Notables and Senior Melodiers in Monroe.

She is survived by her husband of 55 years, James Kelly, her sister Judy O’Donnell, two daughters: Kimberly King of South Dartmouth, MA and Jill Kimball of Easton, CT, and a number of nieces and nephews. She also leaves behind her devoted sons-in-law, Donald King (Kimberly) and John Kimball (Jill). Her grandchildren were the loves of her life: Donald and Kayla; Jack, Susan and Elizabeth. She is predeceased by her beloved granddaughter Susan, her parents Susan and Peter Kochan and brothers Charles and Frank Kochan.

A wake will be held at Spadaccino and Leo P. Gallagher & Son Community Funeral Home, 315 Monroe Turnpike, Monroe, CT 06468 on Friday February 24 from 4-6 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial, including military honors, will be held at 10:00 a.m on Saturday February 25 at St. Lawrence Parish, 505 Shelton Avenue, Shelton, CT 06468. Participants should go directly to the church. Burial will be private with the family at a later date.

Flowers are welcome, or in lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Jean’s memory to your favorite charity.