Charles Joseph Kelly

Charles Joseph Kelly passed away August 4, 2025 at the age of 89. A devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, Charles lived a life marked with deep love for his family and service to others. Born on August 3, 1936, in Newark, New Jersey, Charles was the son of Thomas and Mary Kelly. He grew up alongside his sisters Rita Pecyna, Joan Mahon (predeceased) and brother Patrick Kelly (predeceased). Charles graduated from St. Charles Borromeo High School (Newark), then from Rutgers University earning a Bachelor of Science degree and later became a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). Before entering the workplace, he served honorably in the Army from 1955 until 1958, a period during which he developed a strong sense of duty that he carried throughout his life. Following his military service, he began a remarkable 35-year career with the federal government retiring as Branch Chief in the Newark office of the Internal Revenue Service. Charles was known for his integrity and leadership. Charles was a devoted husband to Maureen Kelly for 68 years. He was a loving father to Eileen Kennedy (husband Robert Kennedy Jr.), Kathleen Adams (husband W. Richard Adams), Patricia Kelly, Thomas Kelly, and Michael Kelly (wife Joan Calista Kelly). His joy was multiplied as he became a grandfather to 16 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren, whose sacraments, graduations, weddings, and sporting events he never missed. Charles was an avid runner well into adulthood completing 3 marathons. He also had a passion for NYT crossword puzzles, Wordle, fishing, golf and was always reading a good book. However, nothing compared to the time he spent with his family. Charles will be remembered for his unwavering support, love, and guidance. His presence enriched the lives of those around him, and he will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him. Mass of Christian burial11 am Tues. August 12th at Our Lady of Good Counsel Church, 42 W. Main St. Moorestown, NJ. Visitation 9:30 – 10:45 at the church. Interment will be in Washington Crossing National Cemetery at a Later Date. The family requests, in lieu of flowers donations be made to- The Joseph Fund of Camden', PO Box 7, Mullica Hill, NJ 08062 https://josephfundcamden.networkforgood.com/projects/91366-the-joseph-fund-main-giving-page