Obituary of Frances M. Kelly

Frances M. Kelly passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 23, 2021 at St. Clare’s Hospital in Denville. She had shared 77 years of unconditional love, infectious laughter, and priceless memories with family and friends. 

 

Born and raised in the Bronx, NY to the late Frank and Margaret Harrison, she was one of two children to bless their household. Frances graduated from Saint Simon Stock High School in the Bronx. In 1963, she married her best friend, Eugene A. Kelly, and settled into their forever home in Denville, NJ in 1968. The Kelly’s were blessed with five wonderful children. Above anything else, Fran relished in spending time with her family, especially her adored grandchildren. There were not many events that she missed; from all sporting events, to racing events, to dance recitals, to graduations, and  weddings, Grandma was there – even if she had to travel far away to get there. She did not want to miss one moment and we will never take that for granted. G-Ma, as her grandkids liked to call her, will be missed in the stands, cheering on her favorite people in the world. Fran was the epitome of the perfect wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend. 

 

A social butterfly, Fran loved to host parties and became very close with her neighbors. She was a member of the Denville Senior Citizens Association and thoroughly enjoyed the friendships she made and the many trips they took together to Mount Airy Casino. She was also a longtime member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church and was active with the Knights of Columbus, both in Denville. Fran was also a hard and dedicated worker. She had a successful career as a Claims Adjuster for Prudential, Chubb, and most recently, ADP in Parsippany. After retirement, she worked part-time at Dress Barn. 

 

Although we are deeply saddened by her passing, we take comfort in knowing she is now reunited with her beloved husband, Gene, her parents, and her brother, James Harrison. 

 

She leaves a lifetime of joyful memories to her loving children, Jeanne Kelly of Rockaway, Richard (Jennifer) Kelly of Rockaway, Margaret “Meg” (Eric) Derkinderen of FL, John (Ruth) Kelly of FL, and Liz (Scott) Williams of Canada; her cherished grandchildren, Abby, Kristen (Raul), E.J. (Kelly), Nicolaas, Amanda (Michael), Katie, Colleen (Sid), Megan, Katelyn, Erin, and Kevin; her treasured great-grandchildren, Adan, Kayla, Aaliyah,  Michael, Jameson (in- utero), and baby DerKinderen (in-utero); her caring companion, Don Forslund; and many nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends. 

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 am on Saturday, July 16, 2022 at St. Mary's Church, Denville.  Interment of ashes to follow at the Denville Cemetery. 

Memorial Donations are being accepted in Fran’s memory to either the Denville American Legion, 9 Legion Place, Denville, NJ 07834 or the Denville Fire Department, 2 Indian Road, Denville, NJ 07834. Please leave a condolence, light a candle, and share your favorite memory of Fran here to continue to celebrate the incredible life she endowed to us.