Kathleen B. Kelly

Kathleen Bridget Kelly passed away peacefully on July 25, 2025, at the age of 82. Born on February 11, 1943, in Dublin, Ireland, Kathleen was the embodiment of strength, grace, and unwavering devotion to her family.

At 17, Kathleen courageously left her homeland to begin a new chapter in the United States, settling in Philadelphia, with her aunt and cousins. It was there that she met the love of her life, Howard Kelly, at the Irish Center—a meeting that marked the beginning of a beautiful life together. The two married and built a family, raising four children while moving between the U.S. and Ireland over the years.

Kathleen was a devoted wife, a loving mother, and a fiercely loyal sister and friend. She took immense pride in her home and family, and when she wasn’t keeping everything running smoothly, she could be found tending to her garden—her green thumb a cherished gift passed down from her mother. She loved long walks, valued health and wellness, and rarely missed a good Lifetime movie in the evenings.

Her strength became even more evident in her later years. After an unexpected seizure at age 70, Kathleen faced mounting health challenges but remained fiercely independent, determined, and brave. It wasn’t until December 2024 that her health began to decline more rapidly—but even then, her spirit never wavered. She fought with everything she had, inspiring all who knew her.

Kathleen is preceded in death by her beloved husband Howard; her son Rodney; her parents, James and Bridget; and her brothers, Tony (Esther) and George (Marie). She is survived by her devoted children: Wilden, Sharon (Michael), and Natasha (Sean); her adored grandchildren: Ryan, Connor, Isabella, Riley, Zoey, and Lucy; her cherished sisters: Anne (Alex), Maureen (Noel), Carol (Tommy), and Bernadette (Liam); and many nieces and nephews in both the U.S. and Ireland.

Kathleen’s strength and unconditional love leave a lasting legacy. She will be remembered always and missed beyond measure. Her fierce, brave spirit lives on in her children and grandchildren, and in the hearts of all who were lucky enough to know her.

Family and friends are invited to Kathy's Viewing 9:30 to 10:30 AM on Friday, August 1, 2025 at The Donohue Funeral Home, 8401 West Chester Pike, Upper Darby, PA 19082, followed by her Funeral Mass at 11:00 AM at St. Laurence Catholic Church, 8245 West Chester Pike, Upper Darby, PA 19082. Interment SS Peter & Paul Cemetery, Springfield, PA.

Kathy's Funeral Mass will be livestreamed and can be found here: https://vimeo.com/event/5283763

In lieu of flowers, contributions to The Continuum Hospice Foundation, affinityhealthmanagement.com/foundation/, would be appreciated.