Obituary of Mary Jane Kelly
Kelly, Jane
1943-2020
On September 2 2020, the world lost one of its brightest lights when Jane Kelly passed away at 77 years old. There are literally no words to express how much we will miss her; the depth of this loss is so profound for so many, because Jane loved easily and freely. She was a living, breathing example that you get what you give, and how wonderful when that exchange is rooted in kindness.
Mary Jane Kelly (nee Wilcox) was predeceased by her husband, Kevin Kelly, who no doubt has been busily preparing for his lovely wife's arrival. She leaves behind her cherished children and children-in-law, Heather (Doug) and Sean (Lesley). She was a fun and fabulous Grandma to Rachel, Matthew, Leah, Olivia and Caleb. She was a much-loved big sister to Georgia (Graham), Roger and Ted (Lesley). She leaves behind numerous in-laws, nieces and nephews, cousins and many, many friends.
Born in Toronto, Jane grew up in Oakville and Montreal, eventually settling in Kingston in 1979. Jane was the ultimate caregiver. She was a pediatric nurse at the Montreal General Hospital and the Massachusetts General Hospital (Boston, MA) throughout the early 1960s into the early 1970s. After 15 years tending to the needs of her family, she returned to school to study Gerontology. She then became co-executive director of the Kingston branch of the Alzheimer's Society (1990-1997), where she supported members of the community at their most vulnerable with sensitivity and kindness.
Special thanks to the staff at KGH for their attentive care during Jane's extended hospital stay, particularly to the staff on Davies 5, whose humour and compassion helped us all through this journey.
Friends and family will be received on Monday September 14, 2020 from 10 am to 12 pm for a Drive Up and Exit Visitation at the James Reid Celebration/Reception Centre at the rear of the funeral home (1900 John Counter Blvd. Kingston, ON K7M 7H3). No scheduling needed. Parking lot attendants will direct guests and brief on COVID-19 protocols and instructions for viewing. No gathering in the parking lot will be allowed and social distancing shall apply. Interment will be a private ceremony.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Alzheimer's Society or the Canadian Diabetes Society would be kindly appreciated.
