EASTHAMPTON – Garry E. Kelly, 67, of Easthampton, MA peacefully passed away in the care of his loving and devoted wife and best friend, Elizabeth W. Kelly (Corse), with whom he spent the happiest years of his life. Garry was born September 2, 1945 to John R. Kelly and Mildred E. Kelly (Noble) from Westfield, with whom he is now reunited.Garry graduated from Westfield Vocational School in 1963, where a lifelong love for woodworking began. He joined the US Army in 1963 and was stationed in Anchorage, AK from 1964-66. Upon returning, he went to work for New England Telephone and Telegraph. He worked as a foreman and a lineman, retiring in 2008. Garry joined the Air National Guard at Barnes 104th Fighter Wing in Westfield in 1980. He retired in 2005 as a First Sergeant for the Civil Engineering Department.
Garry was an avid sports fan and spent many years coaching youth basketball, little league and ice hockey. He had a passion for scuba and traveled to many tropical islands with dear friends and his wife to dive the beautiful underwater world. He also enjoyed hockey, golf and softball. Garry was a member of the American Legion Post 124 and played in weekly pitch leagues.
Garry is survived by his wife, Elizabeth (Corse); his sister, Lois (Kelly) Czarnecki of Westfield, and his children, Timothy Kelly of Maryland, Andrea Gallant of Southwick, Kate Murphy of Russell and Ryan Kelly of Anchorage, Alaska; and his extended family of daughters and sons, grandchildren, a great grandchild, and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Calling hours will be held on Monday, July 22 from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at the Firtion-Adams Funeral Service, 76 Broad Street, Westfield, MA.
The funeral mass will be held on Wednesday, July 24 at 9:30 a.m. in St. Mary’s Church followed by burial with military honors at the Agawam Mass Veterans” Memorial Cemetery, 1390 Main Street, Agawam, MA.
In lieu of flowers, it is Garry’s wish that donations be made in his name to, Jambo Tanzania c/o Dr. Mary Banda, P.O. Box 2673, Springfield, MA 01101 www.Jambo Tanzania.US.
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