John Michael Kelly

September 10, 2024

CHARLOTTE – John Michael “Mike” Kelly, 84, passed away on Tuesday, September 10, 2024, in Charlotte, North Carolina.  Born on July 6, 1940, in Miami, Florida, Mike grew up surrounded by family, including his parents Ruth and Donald Kelly, and his siblings Pat, Cathy, and Ann.  A proud graduate of Miami High, he was a dedicated member of the school’s football team, forming lifelong bonds with his teammates.  After high school, Mike attended Florida State University, where he developed a lifelong love for the Seminoles.

Mike went on to have a successful career in the insurance industry, primarily with Marsh McLennan and later with AON.  He was the devoted husband of Arwyn Durkin Kelly, and together they raised five children: Paige, Shannon, Jennifer, Amanda, and Sean.  He cherished his role as a grandfather to thirteen grandchildren, who were his pride and joy.

A devout Catholic, Mike’s faith played a central role in his life.  He was a long-time member of St. Gabriel Catholic Church in Charlotte, where he served in the Men’s Club and was an active part of the parish community.  His commitment to serving others extended beyond the church, as he dedicated his time to causes, he deeply cared about, including serving on the boards of the Salvation Army and the Boys and Girls Club.  Mike enjoyed travelling and playing golf with friends at Myers Park Country Club.

He is survived by his five children; one daughter-in-law; four sons-in-law; his thirteen grandchildren and three siblings.  His legacy of love, service, and family will continue to inspire those who were fortunate to know him.

A funeral service will be held 11:00 AM on Friday, September 20, 2024, at St. Gabriel Catholic Church, 3016 Providence Road, Charlotte, NC.  The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church.  The service will be livestreamed at: https://stgabrielchurch.org/livefunerals for those unable to attend in person.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to The Salvation Army, PO Box 31128, Charlotte, NC 28231 (https://salvationarmycharlotte.org/greater-charlotte/home).

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606. Online condolences may be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.

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Comments

  • Tom Ferrer

    I've known Mike since the late sixties when we were both employed by Marsh & McLennan. We enjoyed a long distance friendship with Mike in Miami and me in NYC. We rekindled our friendship in Charlotte, and enjoyed having our families join us. We'll miss you Mike but knowing your excellent sales skills we know you're in heaven working on a plan to make all our lives better. Peace & Love, Tom & Marnie Ferrer

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  • Fran and Ron Black

    Remembering our 50+ years of friendship. Laughter, golf and good times…To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die….
    Fran and Ron (Black)

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  • Lynn Stanleigh

    Mike was my first love and a forever friend. One night in 1958, we were at a Boy’s Club LL Game and he introduced our parents to each other. Little did either one of us know that they would form a beautiful friendship that lasted a lifetime. I considered the Kellys my second family. In the recent past, Mike and I were able to spend time together when he visited Punta Gorda. We walked down “Memory Lane” and caught up on present family activities. These are times that I treasure. I know that he will be greatly missed by his wonderful family and wide range of friends. He was certainly one of “the good ones!” Goodbye Mike!

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  • Edward Kay

    My deepest condolences to Mike’s family and friends of which he had many. He was truly a wonderful, generous and charitable gentleman!

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  • MJ Castle

    Lots of love in Heaven this week Michael is with the love of his life. No more pain and suffering. I will miss him in our life but he is happy at his new home. He loved his family and extended family beyond words. A wonderful Dad Grandad and Friend. Rest in peace. You will be missed every day.

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  • Peggy Sapp

    Mike was my husband Neil's friend from when they were 3 years olds growing up in Miami, the loyalty continued throughout their lives. After Neil’s death, Mike continued to check on me to make sure I was okay. Mike lived his Christian beliefs. Job well done Mike, we will miss you.

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