John James Kennelly Jr.

John James “Jack” Kennelly, Jr. of Katy, Texas, born February, 1939, left this Earth on Monday, April 10, 2017 after fighting a three year battle with Multiple Myeloma. Jack was preceded in death by his parents John and Jenny, his three siblings Jean, Claire, and Dennis, and his beloved wife Roselyn, “Butch”. He is survived by his son, Michael Kennelly, his daughter, Lynda Thigpen, his son-in-law Danny Thigpen, and his grandchildren Brett, Paige, Kara, and Sebastian. He will forever be remembered for his larger-than-life spirit, plentiful wise-cracks, loving heart, and Catholic faith. There was never a dull moment or an unhappy face where Jack was found. Jack was from New York, and while having lived for many decades in Texas, he continued to remind all those he encountered of his cherished roots through his jovial accent.

Jack served admirably in the United States Army during peacetime as a machine operator and later began his career in Houston with Shell Oil and Gas, where he remained a loyal employee for over 30 years. Once retired, Jack enjoyed boating and fishing with his children and grandchildren, celebrating each and every day of his life. Jack captured the hearts of many with his famous sense of humor, chatting it up with strangers and fellow golfers on the course.

There is not a single conversation with Jack that can be remembered without the iconic conclusion, “be a good girl/boy.” Jack exemplified the true character of the human spirit through both his beliefs and his actions. He continually reminded and pushed us to be our best selves; selling yourself short was simply not an option. In remembrance of the man who wouldn’t quit ‘till the end, we hold our heads high and push through to the end.

Arrangements under the direction of Katy Funeral Home, Katy, TX.