James P. Kelley, of Willard, Ohio, passed away on Friday, December 8, 2023. James was born on March 16, 1965, in Oberlin, Ohio, to William M. Kelley, Jr. and Nancy J. (DeWitt) Kelley. He was a 1983 graduate of Elyria West High School. He attended Bowling Green State University and graduated in 1989 with his Bachelor's degree in Physical Therapy. James worked in numerous health care settings, during his 20 year career as a physical therapist, before multiple surgeries over the years, for congenital hip issues, would necessitate him to ultimately leave the profession he loved. He later returned to school and received his Master of Arts in counseling from Heidelberg University in Tiffin, Ohio in 2004. James enjoyed 6 years as a licensed professional, clinical counselor. His musical talents at piano, organ, and guitar, provided James the opportunity to meet many friends at various churches and community choirs and other functions outside of his work. He was most recently a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Willard. He was a long time member of St. John's Lutheran Church in New Washington, Ohio, where he participated in many activities over the years.
James is survived by his 3 sons, Trevor (Kyra) Kelley of Shelby, Ohio, Tyler Kelley of New Washington, Ohio, and Thomas Kelley of New Washington, Ohio; 2 grandchildren, Carter Lee Kelley and Lilly Grace Ann Kelley; his mother, Nancy Kelley; and brother, Michael (Amanda) Kelley of Louisville, Kentucky.
James was preceded in death by his father, William M. Kelley, Jr.; and his wife of 23 years, Kimberly (Taylor) Kelley, who was tragically murdered.
A Memorial Service will take place at St. John's Lutheran Church in New Washington on Saturday, December 23, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Kevin Mohr officiating. Burial will take place at St. John's Lutheran Cemetery in New Washington. Memorial contributions may be made to your local mental health board. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.secorfuneralhomes.com.
Condolences
Scott Newton - Dec 25, 2023
I was Jim's roommate at Bowling Green for 2 years. He was the kindest, nicest person I have ever known. He was very dedicated to his studies, he would get up every morning at 5 or 6, do some stretches and exercises, go study for 2 hours, then get breakfast and head off to class. One of his favorite songs was "Modern Love" by David Bowie because there was one line in the chorus when they sang "Church on time", Jim would sing that line and laugh and smile and dance. He had his picture in the student newspaper more than anyone else. When I called him 2 years ago, we were getting reacquainted and when I told him about my wife passing from cancer, he shared with me his loss of Kim, who I had met when they were dating. Heaven will be a better place now that they are both there and together.
Brenda (Fetcenko) Dawson - Dec 24, 2023
I am so sorry for your loss. I was in PT school with James when his hip problems just began. He was so strong and brave during the process. I remember him being very kind to everyone. I do believe that he was friends with my cousin Michelle Fetcenko at Elyria West High school. I’m sure she also will be very sad by his passing.
Julie - Dec 23, 2023
My thoughts and prayers to all Jim's family. Jim was such a beautiful person. I met him in the late 80's and he became my accompaniest at so many weddings throughout the 90's and early 2000's. He even accompanied me at my own wedding for a surprise solo I sang that day in 1993. He was so, so talented. I lost track of him when we moved away, but always thought of him and his beautiful family. There were many times that we practiced at his house so I was blest to know his sons when they were little and his sweet wife. I was unaware of her passing and I'm so sorry that you all have had to suffer through such tragedy losing them both. Heaven did gain such a beautiful angel. My heart hurts knowing he is no longer sharing his beautiful piano playing talent and lovely personality. May He holds your hearts in His hands a you adjust to his absence on this Earth. God bless & Psalm 91 ✝️🙏🕊💜
Sister Diane Hay - Dec 19, 2023
My prayers and sympathy to Jim's family. I first met Jim when he volunteered at Mercy Hospital. He always had a smile and greeted folks with grace. His gentle spirit will be missed, but he will remain in our hearts. God bless.
Cheryl Fenik - Dec 18, 2023
My condolences to the family. I worked with Nancy at Westwood Junior High. One of my favorite memories is when I got the call about a new grandchild and got to deliver the happy news to her. Thinking of you all during this difficult time.
Becky Groner - Dec 18, 2023
Nancy, I'm truly sorry to hear about your son. You're in my prayers & thoughts. Becky Groner
Christen (Brodman) Brown - Dec 17, 2023
I had the privilege of working with Jim years ago, in both Upper Sandusky and Marion. I'll never forget my first day of the job I had an anxiety attack.. Jim took me for a walk outside to calm me down. He was always a calm voice of reassurance for me , as a new grad LPTA , or when I felt life was too much... Jim was a great mentor and friend. I will always remember how he made me feel like an equal in the workplace and in friendship. My love and prayers to his family and loved ones during this time♡♡♡
Robin - Dec 17, 2023
It was 30 years ago that I met your father I was there for rehab. He worked on me longer than he probably was allotted but because of him I have more mobility than I ever thought possible after my accident. Your dad had to carry many burdens go through many hurdles and one man can ever or should ever do it. I'm sorry for all of your loss and I'm grateful for all that he new and who he was.
Cathy skladan heck - Dec 16, 2023
Mrs Kelly and Mike, I am so sorry to hear of this. Jim was the sweetest. I know he will be missed and that he will be watching over all he loved.
Jennifer Molina - Dec 15, 2023
Nancy, I'm so sorry for the loss of your son, Jim. Sending prayers and hugs!
Penny Mastron Howell - Dec 14, 2023
I was sad to hear of Jim's death. When I worked at Hillside he was a friendly familiar face on my unit. So much to go through in a lifetime but he always had a smile and was an amazing P.T. He will surely be missed.
Renee (Lasky) Martin - Dec 13, 2023
My sincere condolences to Mrs. Kelley (Nancy) & Mike. I am truly sorry for your loss & may Jimmy’s contagious smile forever be in our memory. My thoughts & prayers are with you during this difficult time.
MARILYN FRYMAN - Dec 13, 2023
I am so saddened to hear of Jim passing away. I worked with him for many years at Mercy. He was an exceptional physical therapist, but more than that he was a wonderful, caring person. May he rest in peace.
Mark Skladan - Dec 12, 2023
My deepest sympathies to the entire family. Jim was the ultimate in “good” The true definition of a good man I truly enjoyed our musical friendship at EWHS
Tania Gradella Weaver Gomes - Dec 12, 2023
My Deepest Sympathies to Jim’s Family. I got to know Jim at The Willard Hospital Physical Therapy Dept. He was a wonderful PT and person! He always spoke so proudly of his family. He was a kind and caring soul! My thoughts and prayers are with all of you!
Beth Goodsite - Dec 12, 2023
My condolences to Jim's family. I worked with Jim at Mercy for many years. He always had a smile and kind words for everyone. He brought out the best in so many people and I have no doubt he was a great counselor. Rest in peace Jim.
Teresa - Dec 12, 2023
My condolences to the families for your loss. Jimmy was a great neighborhood friend, band member, classmate for as long as I can remember with my sister and cousins. He was also right there with me 2nd in line for shortest people. May you rest in peace my friend and play load music all you want. God bless your heart Jimmy ❤️ 💙 Teri Stawicki-Payne
Debby - Dec 11, 2023
I remember Jim so well from our contemporary band at Saint Agnes Church years ago. Such a gifted and talented and fun spirited young man. my daughters enjoyed singing with him at mass on Sundays.. that was over 40 years ago, but I can still see Jim’s big smile and lively spirit. I’m sending my prayers and love to his family. May peace be with you dear Jim. You will be very missed by your family and friends.. 🙏♥️
Barry Campbell - Dec 11, 2023
Sorry to hear of his passing.knew Jim from when he used live by me he was always good to everyone I always enjoyed my talks with him. Rip my friend!!
Cindy Phillips Lynch - Dec 11, 2023
Dear Family I am so sorry to hear that Jim passed away, what a dear man. We worked together at the hospital and enjoyed music performances together in recent years. Your family is in my prayers. Cindy
Sue - Dec 11, 2023
I went to school with Jim. I remember him as a kind and caring individual. Condolences ro his children. God bless. Sue
Donna Myers - Dec 11, 2023
I am so sorry to learn of Jim's passing. Jim was the kindest and most compassionate co-worker during our time at Willard Mercy Hospital. May he rest in the arms of his Savior! R.I.P.
Angie chaffins - Dec 11, 2023
Jim was a dear friend and co-worker for many years. I am broken hearted for Jim’s family. He was a truly good man. I’m so very sorry.
Karen - Dec 10, 2023
Jim, was one of the best therapist I ever worked with. He was smart, compassionate, and loved what he did. He always encouraged me to do more in my career. My prayers go out to his boys. He was one of the best!
Jerilyn Inmon - Dec 10, 2023
I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your father. I went to PT school with Jim. He was kind, compassionate, and a one of a kind human being. He inspired many on his journey thru life. You have my prayers and sympathy.
Sheila Stone - Dec 10, 2023
So sorry for your loss. Prayers for God's comfort at this time.
Dorothy - Dec 10, 2023
Sorry for the loss of Jim I worked at Mercy Hospital and he was a kind loving person, my thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
Trish Tarr - Dec 10, 2023
I worked with Jim at Mercy for many years. This breaks my heart. Im so sorry for your loss.
Tammi Heefner - Dec 10, 2023
I just wanted to say I truly sorry I am to hear about Jim. He was one of the nicest people I have ever known. Prayers for your family.
