Michael a proud Kilkerley man devoted to his community
On his first anniversary, Michael Kelly, who died on 17 July, 2019, is fondly remembered.
Michael, or Mickey as he was widely known by friends and family, was born on 15 November, 1945 to parents Owen and Josephine Kelly from Kilkerley.
Along with his parents he was predeceased by his brothers, Anthony, Eugene, Jerry and William.
He attended Kilkerley National School and later went on to work with McArdle, Williams and Duffy coach builders. He also spent some years working in Manchester, England.
Upon his return from England, Michael met his beloved wife Jacinta Moore, a native of Newry.
They married at Sacred Heart Church, Cloughogue in April 1977. The couple lived in Kilkerley and later had two sons, Christopher and Eamonn.
Michael was a very proud Kilkerley man, a well-known and respected character throughout the parish.
He took great pride and satisfaction in the numerous groups and committees he was involved in, and provided much of his time and energy to each.
These groups spanned all parts of the community and included, Kilkerley Development group, Tidy Towns, Community Alert, Young at Heart, Kilkerley National School Board of Management and St. Vincent De Paul.
During the funeral it was even remarked by Fr. Gerry Campbell that ‘Mickey was in every local committee apart from the ICA!’
Michael also worked as Sacristan for over 20 years in the Church of Immaculate Conception, Kilkerley.
This was a role he filled with great honour and dedication. His service was recognised in December 2018 when he and Jacinta both received a St. Patrick’s Medal from the Armagh Diocese, presented by Archbishop Eamonn Martin during the Christmas Eve Vigil Mass.
Michael remained committed to his role of sacristan despite his ongoing illness and was determined to continue in order to support the various Easter services in April 2019.
He took great joy and pleasure from working with and helping others. This ranged from young and old and was clearly recognised through the numerous guards of honour at his funeral Mass.
Michael also derived great satisfaction from the various cards prepared for him by the children of Kilkerley National School during his illness. His family remain very appreciative for the kindness and ongoing support from all.
Along with his community work, Michael enjoyed many pastimes; his favourite being gardening. He was also quite handy at fixing machinery such as lawnmowers and enjoyed the challenge they presented.
Michael is survived by his wife, Jacinta; sons, Christopher and Eamonn; their partners, Joce and Sinéad; his brother, Harry and sisters Mary, Vera, Anna and Eileen.
Michael’s First Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, 18 July at 6pm in the Church of The Immaculate Conception, Kilkerley.