James Shannon Kelly Jr.

James, "Jim", Shannon Kelly Jr passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 20th, 2023 at the age of 83. He was born to James Kelly and Laverne (Hunt) Lewis on September 14th, 1939 in Kansas City, MO.  

As a sophomore in high school, Jim walked into his classroom at his new school and immediately set eyes on the love of his life, Joyce. From that day forward, it was Jim and Joyce as a couple and were united in marriage at 17 & 18 years old. Jim enlisted in the United States Navy and proudly served his country for 21 years. During this time, they created homes in many new cities as he was stationed at various Naval bases throughout the country. They had 5 beautiful children together that shared in this journey before Jim retired as a Chief Petty Officer in 1977. Jim and Joyce spent 65 years together, loving one another unconditionally and building an incredible life together. Jim loved his family fiercely and always expressed such pride for his bride, children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. He enjoyed fishing and spending time at the lake, and will forever be known for his infamous BBQ- especially those meatballs!