Edward Michael Kelly, age 97 of St. Petersburg, Florida, formerly of South River, New Jersey passed away peacefully on August 18, 2022.
The year was 1942 when all the neighborhood boys of Northside Avenue, South River, New Jersey left to defend our country during WWII. Edward served in the US Navy 1942-1946. He was captured by the Japanese and sent prisoner of war camp in the Philippines. Battling malaria, he survived and continued with the European Theatre Operations and was involved in the invasions of Saipan, Iwo Jima, Okinawa and Leyte. He was awarded the American Theatre Medal, Asiatic Pacific Medal, 2 stars. Philippine Liberation Ribbon and the Victory Medal.
Edward was appointed to the South River, New Jersey Police Department in 1951, promoted to the rank of Sergeant in 1961 and then to the rank of Lieutenant in 1969. He retired in 1980.
Edward was predeceased by his parents- Edward and Wilhema Kelly, brothers- Tom, Jackie, and Frank, and sisters- Doris and Kitty.
He is survived by Eileen, Marie and brother, Jimmy. Sons- Richard and Cathy Kelly of Sebastian, FL, David Kelly of Dolores, Colorado, Daughters- Terry Carlo of St. Petersburg, FL,
Barbara Laul of South River, NJ.
Ed loved his retirement community of Americana Cove in St. Petersburg, Florida where he enjoyed the Florida sunshine and his new community. Ed was one of the founding fathers of Americana Cove and was responsible for the purchase of the land to make it possible for future generations to enjoy the resident owned community on beautiful Tampa Bay.
Rest in peace Edward as you have had quite a fulfilling life. You will be missed by many.
He will be sadly missed in the Cove.
Jack really enjoyed playing pool with him.
Had really great conversations with him.
R.I.P. Ed
Uncle Ed, I will always treasure the memory of being a kid at Christmas time, celebrating Richie’s birthday & the Holiday season. You were very handsome in your SR police uniform & I always looked up to you.
May you Rest In Peace.
Jim J.
Loved our talks and times we spent together. Will always remember the songs you picked for me. And all the special memories. You will be missed. Thank you for all you gave to your country, community and the Cove. Love you, miss you. Rest in peace 💖
Dearest Terry, we are deeply saddened to hear that your dad has passed away. Please take comfort in knowing he is now at peace. I always enjoyed our conversations about your dad and how he was doing. What a great man and he left a beautiful legacy. We thank you for your service 🇺🇸to our country and to America Cove, Ed.
RIP dear one. God Bless. 🙏🙏💕🙏🙏
Rest in peace brother, it was an honor to know and spend time with you.
God has blessed you with longevity. Thank you for your many years of service. I’ve always enjoyed our visits. May you RIP. 🇺🇸
Ed Kelly was my friend and partner on the South River Police Department. He was a great Juvenile Officer and was loved by everyone in the community. I will always remember the good old days serving years with Sgt. Kelly. Rest in peace my friend and God Bless your family.
The Luker/Wawrzynski/Mizin clan from Jeffrie Avenue offers their condolences to one of the Northside Ave boys. My Mom, Edwina loved the whole Kelly family and enjoyed being part of your crew watched over by your Mom, Minnie.
Dear Ed- you were the best! So sorry you are gone! Condolences to the family.
My prayers to his family and friends. Rest easy and fly high! 🙏🙏🙏
Ed was a kind person who you could quickly strike up conversations with. You could listen to his stories for hours. Thank you, Ed, for your service to our country and to our home, Americana Cove. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family. Rest in peace.