Lawrence “Larry” Kelly, 87, of Ocean Gate, died suddenly and peacefully at his home on June 29, 2022. Born and raised in South Philadelphia, he also lived many years in the Rhawnhurst section of Northeast Philadelphia. He then retired to Ocean Gate in 1997 after summering there since the early 1960’s.
Larry dedicated himself to his family, to his community, and to his country. He proudly served in the US Air Force during the Korean War and was the recipient of several citations for his service in action. After returning from the Korean War, he served as a Philadelphia firefighter for more than 20 years. In his retirement, Larry was a member of VFW Post #9503 where he served in several positions including past Post Commander. Additionally, he also served NJVFW District #12 as a past Commander. In Ocean Gate, Larry was a Councilman from 2006 to 2009.
Larry is survived by the love of his life, Kathleen. They enjoyed 65 plus years together. He is also survived by his five devoted children: Larry and his wife Lauren, Michael and his wife Kathy, Karen, Mary Kay, and Jack; ten cherished grandchildren: Megan, Joseph, Veronica, Nicole, Joseph, Michael, John, Jackie, Matthew and Jen; his three siblings: Eileen and her husband George, Ken and his wife Peg, and Diana and her husband Hugh; his aunt Florence Cader, nieces, nephews, cousins and many loving friends.
Visitation will take place on Wednesday, July 6th, from 9:30am to 10:45am in the Mastapeter Memorial Home, 270 Atlantic City Blvd., Bayville. A Funeral Mass will be offered at 11am in St. Barnabas Church, 33 Woodland Road, Bayville. Interment will follow to the Brig. Gen. Wm. C. Doyle Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Wrightstown at 1:30pm. In lieu of flowers, donations in Larry’s memory can be sent to: VFW Post #9503, 383 Veterans Blvd., Bayville NJ, 08721.
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