Joseph Kelly

Joseph John Kelly, age 71, of Coopersburg, PA., formerly of Fountain Hill, passed away on August 22, 2022, at his residence. He was the loving husband of Vina Jane (Fletcher) Kelly with whom he shared over 12 years of marriage. Born on April 8, 1951 in Collingswood, NJ, he was a son of the late John and the late Laura (Armstrong) Kelly.

Prior to retirement, he worked at the Cathedral Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania as a church sexton for 15 years; he previously worked as a foreman at the Eco Aluminum Factory in New Jersey, where he made some lifelong friends. He was a member of the Republican Club of Fountain Hill and the Fearless Fire Company of Allentown, where he enjoyed many mornings socializing with his friends over a cold beer and good television.

Joe loved life and lived to the fullest. He loved gardening, animals (his own and yours), practical jokes, trying new recipes, the Arizona Cardinals, Miller Lite, scrapple, his grandchildren, and a good argument – he took pride in how many times (and for how long) he landed in Facebook jail. He celebrated each holiday to the hilt, sporting a green mohawk on St. Patrick’s Day, planning elaborate Easter and Thanksgiving dinners, and writing out Christmas cards in September. He never forgot to remind you how old you were (even when you wanted to forget) and he never forgot a birthday or special occasion. Eating vegetables, going to the doctor, driving the speed limit, and being fussed over were some of the things he avoided at all costs. He was stubborn with an Irish temper but was quick to move on, and his generosity towards his family and friends was beyond compare. He loved his wife, Jane, with all his heart and would do anything for her.

Surviving along with his wife, Jane, are his children, Joseph J. Kelly, Jr. and his wife Stephanie, Patrick Kelly, and Kevin Kelly; stepdaughter, Kristen Jellison and her husband Darin; his grandchildren, Tyler Kelly, Alexa Kelly, Madison Kelly, Mason Kelly, Aiden Kelly, Jade Kelly and Cierra Kelly; his step grandchildren, Noah Jellison and Kate Jellison; and his sister, Laura Cox. He was predeceased by his brother, John Kelly.

At Joe’s request, no formal services are planned. Memorial contributions may be made in his memory to Animals In Distress, 5075 Limeport Pike, Coopersburg, PA 18036.

Arrangements are by Naugle Funeral & Cremation Service of Quakertown (215-536-3343). To view his online obituary please visit www.nauglefcs.com.