James R. Kelly, 75, of Westfield, MA passed away peacefully on July 27, 2026 after a life long illness and a recent battle with pancreatic cancer. He was born in Holyoke, MA on August 10, 1950 to Robert Kelly and the late Alice (Shriber) Kelly. He was educated in Holyoke schools but graduated from Gateway Regional in Huntington. He attended Holyoke Community College, Marquette University, Western New England College and received an M’ED from Springfield College. He served in the Navy from 1968 to 1972. He worked for the United States Postal Service at the Bulk Mail Center in Springfield, MA overnight for many years before retiring. He enjoyed working in the yard, Goofy, the Disney character, Topsail Beach, and hosting parties. Music tastes included Frank Sinatra, Billy Joel, John Denver and Paul McCartney. He was predeceased by his late wife Christina (Garstka) Kelly, and recently by his sister-in-law Rosemary (Johnson) (Tronstein) Brownlee (Robert). He leaves his wife Denise (Johnson) Kelly of Westfield and his father Robert of Southwick. He also leaves his in laws Alan and Ginene Johnson, their children Eric Johnson (Jennifer)   and Jennifer Thompson (Michael Warchol). Their children, his great nieces, Emma Johnson and Elise Neal (Patrick), Anna Cait Thompson and Aleigh Thompson. Calling hours for Jim will be held on Monday August 3, 2026 from 10-11 AM at Firtion-Adams Funeral Service, 76 Broad Street, Westfield. A funeral home service will follow at 11 AM in the funeral home. Burial will follow in St Jerome’s Cemetery, Holyoke. Donations may be made to the DAV (Disabled American Veterans) who were a great help to him. Donations also to Brigham & Women's Hospital of Boston would be appreciated. www.firtionadams.com