Obituary: Francis J. Kelly, age 97

Francis J. Kelly, 97 of Milford, passed away peacefully on September 12, 2025,after a short illness, at Milford Hospital surrounded by his family. He was born on August 14, 1928, in Bridgeport, to the late Francis and Catherine Kelly, and resided in the Devon section of Milford. Francis was the beloved husband of Marilyn (Mitchell) Kelly. He graduated from Milford High School and attended the University of New Haven.

Francis proudly served his country in the United State Navy during WWII and Korea. He was stationed at Brooklyn Navy Yard, Newport, RI, and sailed across to Greenland and the Arctic Circle.
He joined SNET as an installer and retired after 35 years from AT&T as manager for all coin telephones in CT in 1987. He was very active in St. Mary’s Holy Name Society and a Lector at Sunday masses. He was a member of the Governor’s Foot Guard, Milford Rotary, and Devon Old Timers Club. He served on the Finance Board , and Library Board for the City of Milford. After retirement, he worked at Orange Hills Country Club for many years as a ranger. In later years he was a volunteer at the Melbourne, FL hospital, escorting patients out as they were discharged. He was also a volunteer at baseball Spring Training for the Washington Nationals in FL., working his way from seat escort to the private boxes and helping with preseason coaches, pitchers, and catchers.
After retirement Francis and his wife spent many winters in Indialantic Fl. enjoying time with family and close friends. They also spent many years traveling.
Francis is survived by his loving wife of 72 years Marilyn Mitchell Kelly. He will be sadly missed by his children: Francis W. (Fran), Michael, Peggy Erickson(Will), Lynn, and Timothy (Cindy). He was predeceased by his son Mark Kelly,
his daughter Catherine Kelly Muir, and his granddaughter, Gillian
Davis. He is also survived by his seven grandchildren: Jessica Kelly (Doug), Katie, Christina, Molly (Landon), Kelly Erickson, Mary, and Matthew. Francis had four great grandchildren: Kaleb Hastings, Ryenne Hastings, Kayden Norman, and Rachel Foote. And a special granddaughter, Xyva. He is survived by his sister Katheen Dalton (Jim), and Dan Kelly (Anne). Francis was predeceased by his sisters, Rosemary Lynch, Patricia Drake, & Joann Mapes.
Frank lived a long, healthy, and happy life and will be missed by all.
A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. September 18, 2025, at St. Mary Church, Milford. (MEET DIRECTLY AT CHURCH). Burial will follow in St. Mary Cemetery, Milford with Military Honors. There are no calling hours. As a memorial, please donate to a charity of your choice. THE DOYLE FUNERAL HOME is in care of arrangements. To leave an online condolence, please visit, www.gregoryfdoylefuneralhome.com.