Edward P. Kelly

October 16, 1945 - August 7, 2024

“Gym teacher, coach, mentor, philosopher, and local activist, Edward Patrick Kelly, aged 78, passed into the great mystery of death on August 7, 2024. A man of immense passion and kindness, Edward left a lasting impact on everyone he met.

His greatest joy came from his family and from being a devoted husband to his wife, Linda, a dedicated and involved father to his two sons, Sean and Brian, a loving father-in-law to Diana, and, closest to his heart, an unparalleled “Pop Pop” to his cherished grandchildren, Magnus-Aodhan and Lilith-Haisley Kelly. Edward’s grandchildren were the light of his life, and he theirs; his patience, love, and boundless energy made every moment with him a treasure.

Edward was a man of deep intellect and diverse interests—whether he was biking, painting, walking, spending time with his family, or exploring the art museums of New York City, he embraced life with unmatched vigor. His belief that “death is not the end” reflects his indomitable spirit and readiness for whatever comes next in the cosmic journey.

His influence will continue to ripple through the lives of those who knew him, inspiring courage, compassion, and the belief that we are all part of something greater.”

All services are private.

Woolley Boglioli Funeral Home

Joseph and Marcy Letizia

Lori Aumack class of 1980

John Mastria

Chryssa Tsakiris

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Ed and I were active in 4-H in Somerset county in the 1950''s and early 1960's. A great friend--we accomplished a lot of things related to the Program and had a lot fun. Rest in Peace my friend. Nolen

Angela and I were very sad to hear of Ed’s passing. I treasure the years teaching at Shore Regional and Ed’s hilarious sense of humor! We met several times over the years, at the boardwalk, on Rt. 36 (where he was known as the guy holding up the BLM sign), and around town whenever I saw him riding his bike. He was truly one of the most unique and genuine persons I have ever known.

It’s hard to put into words the effect Uncle Kelly had on me. He was the rare person who stood up, spoke out, spoke up for those without a voice. He modeled this behavior. Anyone who knows me well has heard about Uncle Kelly and his tee shirts, his roadside protest, his trips to NYC to adventure and bring supplies to unhoused individuals. He told me he tries to talk to the people that most people avoid. So much character and integrity. The news of his passing is sad and yet if there’s one thing that brings solace it is the example of how he spent his time and lived fully present in this world. He lived his life and he loved his life. I think we all can honor his memory by striving for the same approach. Sending love to my cousins and their household❤️

Kelly and I were roommates at Trenton State College 1964-1968. I had just gotten out of the Army, 82nd Airborne Division. Okay so maybe I wasn’t wrapped too tight to start with but for some reason Ed’s mom thought I would be a good influence on him. It could happen. To say we had fun in college would be a gross understatement. Our group of guys were the “Animal House” of our day. And our grades showed it. We graduated and went on to careers as gym teachers. I went to Kel’s wedding and after that we slowly lost contact. Fast forward 40 or so years and someone tells me about Kelly and his year of Black Lives Matter protest. I’m mystified. Are you sure it’s my Ed Kelly we’re talking about here. We reconnect. I’m so glad I got to spend the last few years of his life in contact with him. I got to view the Ed Kelly transformation first hand. Everything you read in these eulogies is true. He absolutely was a devoted family man and never lost his commitment to what is right. When our college gang gets together the “Kelly stories” just keep coming. I will miss him every time I think of him. Kelly was the man.

Kelly was the very best of what people should be. I will miss him enormously. Kelly was smarter than most people ever realized, kinder than anyone might know and had a zest for life that was boundless. Yes, he was a teacher, but he was also a student of living and life. I treasure my memories of him.

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

I'm so sorry for your loss. Mr. Kelly was such a happy gentle person. He let me run the archery class even after he told us we had to follow his direction. Also, caught me smoking but let us all go., no suspension. We all loved him. And I ran into him when he had the bar in Asbury. He certainly was a busy man. I lov the picture you chose. I know you have the fondest memories and will be shedding tears forever. God bless.

I was fortunate to have Mr. Kelly as my wrestling coach for four years. Passionate kind fair a leader he supported everyone unbiasedly. What a mentor for my teenage years. Thanks Mr Kelly for your guidance and great memories 🙏🙏

Ed//////you were the verrrry verrrry best....You went far above and beyond in all things...You stood for all the good causes/////You walked the walk....You made North Locust Avenue and all of WLB.....and so many more places.....better locales by your presence and smile... Luv You Guys, he'd tell all of us....It was always vice versa, as well....Au Revoir, my good man....Elliott and Jo Denman andSue Judy and Liz...and all the grandkids....and lots lots more...Elliott D.

In memory of Edward P. Kelly, Joseph and Marcy Letizia lit a candle

He was amazing person and teacher. I always enjoyed his company. I remember when a Kid John was acting up in our class. Mr Kelly stopped the whole class and He said " Class John needs attention. Please tell John you see him! He is one of the greatest. He use to wear this "Dean College" Sweater and when I graduated he gifted me the Sweater. I will never forget him love to all his family and friends.

I am so very sorry for your great loss. Ed was a special sort. Don't see that spirit much in life. We only had the grace of his friendship for 4 years, but what an impression he made on us. The kindest, sweetest man. Man, he loved being free to ride. He'd go 3 times a day! We adored him!!! We are right down the street if you need anything. Have to say this for Ed..."God Bless The Irish!" He would ride past our house and scream it! Rob and Jane Rooney

I was so so sad to hear of Mr. Kelly’s passing. He was by far my favorite teacher and even after seeing him all over town as an adult. He was just the absolute best! God Bless you Mr Kelly an absolute kind soul! My thoughts and prayers to his family❤️🙏🏼

To all the Kelly Family. Ed Kelly was the best ! He will be missed.

Dear Kelly Family, I loved Coach Kelly!!!! I was the child of a Board member. That shouldn’t matter, but some teachers DID treat me differently. Your Dad didn’t. He always treated me as my own person. He saw my own strengths and weaknesses and he coached me to be better at everything. He never judged anyone. He loved us all and it was clear to ALL who knew him. Thank You for sharing him with us! We mourn with you. Hugs! Michelle Strangia Hale

A day was made brighter in the presence of Ed. How I treasure my time at Shore with Ed. His love of teaching have undoubtedly impacted many and his legacy will forever endure. Ed's family and loved ones are in my thoughts.

My deepest sympathies to the Kelly family. Ed and I worked together for over 30 years in the phys ed department at Shore Regional. I shared many great memories and I appreciated his humor. Most of all we were both very fortunate to have such wonderful students. May you rest in peace, Ed.

In memory of Edward P. Kelly, Lori Aumack class of 1980 lit a candle

In memory of Edward P. Kelly, John Mastria lit a candle

my condolences to the Kelly family. I taught with Ed at Shore regional high school until 1980. He was a great guy. I ran into him recently, and we spoke at length. Will miss him. Ric Toscano. former German & Spanish teacher.

I worked with Ed for many years at Shore. Always ready with a smile and a joke. May he rest in peace. My deepest sympathy for his family at his loss

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

Ed. Great guy always had a smile going for him and others

To my old time friend Ed Rest easy my friend, Condolences Joe and Family

Mr. Kelly was simply the best. May his memory live forever in the hearts of everyone lucky enough to have known him!

Life travels in many circles and sometimes it comes full circle. Mr Kelly as I knew him as a teacher at Shore Regional High School became Kelly when we met again years later. I and my girlfriend Terri would always talk to Kelly on the Long Branch boardwalk, the many concerts in and around Pier Village and West End and a few car shows. He would always talk about his trips into NYC and his visiting the many museums. He would always end our talks with "luv you guys" The last time I spoke to him he said 'Thanks for the call Butch, it means a lot to me, see ya soon, luv you guys"

I am so sorry to hear the news I have been looking for him all summer riding this bike and haven't seen him. He was a great man and always will be in my memory he loved and cherished my daughter Malaya They will meet in heaven Rest in peace.

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.