Joseph J. Kelly

It is with profound sadness that family and friends announce the unexpected passing of Joseph “Jody” Kelly on February 19, 2026, in Belmar, New Jersey.

Jody was formerly a resident of South Amboy, New Jersey, and a proud graduate of Saint Mary’s High School, Class of 1970. The son of the late Joseph and Anna Kelly, he was raised on Evelyn Terrace, where he was actively involved in local sports, particularly baseball.

Jody developed a lifelong love of horseracing at an early age, spending many Saturdays at Freehold Raceway alongside his father. He later realized a longtime dream when he had the opportunity to drive a harness horse himself.

During his years in New Jersey, Jody worked as a warehouse manager for Syntex Laboratories in East Brunswick before continuing his career in warehouse management with several other companies.

In later years, Jody made his home along the Jersey Shore, where he became a devoted and active member of the Friendly Sons of the Shillelagh (FSOS) in Belmar. Known as the club’s “go-to” guy, he eventually served as bar manager and became an integral part of the FSOS family. His passing leaves a tremendous void among the many friends and fellow members who knew and loved him there.

Jody was predeceased by his parents, Joseph and Anna Kelly, and by his nephew, Thomas John Kelly.

He is survived by his brother, Jay Thomas Kelly and his wife, Sharon, of Minnesota; his niece, Sharon Kelly-Miele and her husband, Robert, of Florida; his grandnieces, Anna Sofia and Ava Thomas; his cousins, Richard and Joann Heisenbottle; his former wife, Terry Jankowski Kelly of New Jersey; and countless friends whose lives he touched wherever his path took him.

Jody’s ashes will be laid to rest in Minnesota alongside his nephew. A celebration of life will be held at the Friendly Sons of the Shillelagh in Belmar on March 26th, 1pm. Those wishing to honor Jody’s memory are invited to raise a glass in his honor and remember him in their own way. Gone too soon, remembered always, and forever loved.

Rest in God’s eternal peace, Joe — “In front.” Cheers.

Cremation was private under the direction of The Gundrum Service "Home For Funerals" 237 Bordentown Avenue, South Amboy.

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