James R. "Jim" Kelly

James R. “Jim” Kelly passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at the age of 73.

Born in Covington, Kentucky, to James J. and Virginia (Wasmuth) Kelly, Jim was a man who never met a stranger. He worked at Kroger for 47 years before retiring, becoming a familiar and beloved face to countless people throughout the community. Jim had a gift for making everyone feel welcome and was known for his kindness, humor, and genuine love of people.

Jim shared a loving marriage of 48 years with his wife, Sheree (nee McHargue) Kelly. He was a proud and beloved father to Tara Kelly, Jonathan (Nicole) Kelly, and Leah (Nicholas) Koch, and a devoted grandfather to Madison, Morgan, and Nolan Koch. His grandchildren brought him tremendous joy, and he treasured every moment spent with them.

Jim is also survived by his relatives, Kay (Kent) Bradshaw, Angie (Rick) Lackey, Shawn (Cheryl) Kelly, Brian (Betty) Kelly, Meg (Vince) Wellbrock, Moira (Dan) Dietz, and Tammy (Tom) Barnes. Along with sister-in-law Diane (Mark) Sundrup, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

Jim will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the many people whose lives he touched. His ability to make a friend wherever he went and his love for his family will be remembered always.

Visitation will be held Saturday, September 19th, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the Catholic Memorial Mass at 12:00 p.m. at St. Joseph Church, 2470 Lorraine Ct., Crescent Springs, KY 41017.

In lieu of flowers, sympathy may be expressed through a memorial contribution to:

St. Boniface SVDP Food Pantry 1750 Chase Ave. Cincinnati, OH 45223

or

Cincinnati Jesuit Community 3844 Victory Parkway Cincinnati, OH 45207