James Patrick Kelly

James Patrick Kelly, “Pat”, of Cary, NC, a man of quiet resolve and steadfast principles, passed away peacefully at the age of 94, surrounded by loved ones. Born September 28, 1930, in Clayton, New Mexico, Pat lived a life defined by hard work, loyalty, and a commitment to improving the world around him.

Pat was the son of Walter Gordon Kelly and Francis Reynolds Kelly. He is survived by his devoted wife, Georgina Anderson Kelly, who was his steadfast companion throughout their long marriage. He is also survived by his sister, Betty Gable of Anderson, South Carolina, his children, Robert Kelly, Suzanne Kelly, and David Kelly, as well as eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren who brought him immense pride and joy. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers, Neil Kelly and Joseph Kelly, and his son, Michael Kelly.

After graduating from the University of Colorado in 1953 with a degree in chemical engineering, Pat embarked on a 35-year career with Union Carbide. He led by example and was revered for his integrity and tireless pursuit of improvement, always seeking to refine systems and solve problems to make a meaningful impact on everything he touched.

In addition to his career, Pat embraced a variety of personal passions. He was an avid traveler and a talented photographer, capturing the world’s beauty through his lens on journeys near and far, especially during memorable trips abroad with his grandchildren. He also found camaraderie and challenge as a lifelong golfer and bridge player, enjoying friendly competition on the fairways and at the card table. A voracious reader and active member of multiple book clubs, he nurtured a deep intellectual curiosity and remained committed to lifelong learning.

Pat believed deeply in serving his community and staying connected to those he cared about. In retirement, he made meaningful contributions to AARP, where his leadership and dedication had a lasting impact. He served as President of Cary’s MacGregor Downs Country Club and maintained close ties with his Union Carbide alumni network, cherishing the lasting friendships forged there. He especially treasured his weekly lunches with “The Thursday Guys,” a tradition of fellowship and laughter.

He always sought to leave things better than he found them, demonstrating true greatness through perseverance, conviction, and grace. In the hearts of all who knew him, his legacy of quiet greatness will forever endure. A private family service will be held at his family’s gravesite in South Carolina.

We invite all friends to join us for a Celebration of Life luncheon on Saturday, March 15th from 11am to 1pm at Searstone, 17001 Searstone Drive, Cary, NC. We will gather in the Arts and Crafts room in the Winston Clubhouse. All are welcome as we honor and remember him, share memories, and reflect on his remarkable legacy.

Memorial tributes and messages of sympathy can be left by clicking the "Add a Memory" box below. Brown Wynne of Cary is honored to serve the Kelly family.