Obituary of Robert E. Kelly

Robert E. "Bob" Kelly, 74, passed away suddenly on Friday, June 5, 2026, in Villa Hills, Kentucky, while doing what he enjoyed most—traveling the country in his RV. In his 74 years, Bob shared unconditional love, infectious laughter, boundless energy, and unforgettable adventures with family, friends, students, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. 

He is survived by his daughters, Catherine “Kitt” Kelly (Late Michael Parnell),  Elizabeth “Betsy” Hackett (Peter), his grandchildren, Annabelle and Brendan Hackett, his loving partner and travel companion Mary Ellen Brown, as well as his siblings, Gregory Kelly, Brian Kelly (Theresa), Liz Kelly, and Claudia Kelly, and all their children, along with a large extended family that never felt extended. He joins his late wife, Louise Catherine (Zimmer) Kelly and his parents, Elizabeth (Brennan) Kelly and Robert A. Kelly along with many other family and friends who welcome him with open arms in heaven.

Born on February 7, 1952, and raised in Queens, New York, Bob, affectionately, “Bobby,” was one of five children who grew up surrounded by family, stories, and the values that would guide him throughout his life. He graduated from Christ the King High School in 1970 before earning a degree in Marine Science from the University of Southampton. Bob dedicated his life to serving others. He proudly served with the Florham Park Police Department for 26 years, beginning as a patrol officer and ultimately retiring as a Lieutenant. Never content to stand still, he embraced a second calling after retirement, earning a degree in Education from Caldwell College and becoming a science teacher at Valley View Middle School in Denville. To his students, “Mr Kelly” was the teacher who inspired them to ask questions, seek experiences, and never stop learning. He was most recently a key member of the Navion Motorhome community, forming fast friendships with everyone he met, organizing group events and rallies, giving educational talks, and just generally having as much fun as possible. For Bob, the destination was never as important as the people he met and the friendships he made along the way.

In November 1979, Bob married his soulmate and best friend, Louise Catherine (Zimmer). Together they built a beautiful life in Denville, raising their daughters with a focus on God, unconditional love, learning, and service to others. While Kitt and Betsy were young, they traveled the country to see America - from day trips to weeks long adventures, often at state or national parks. After the girls grew up, Bob and Louise explored even more, including France with his parents, and revisiting old favorites in their RV, finding all the beautiful places this country has to offer, and visiting and meeting new friends everywhere they went. After Louise passed, Bob continued to travel, first on his own, and then with his traveling companion, Mary Ellen Brown, who has since grown into family. His greatest joys were getting to spend time with his daughters and grandchildren - whether it be on his backpacking and other adventures with Kitt, or relaxing while “living life” on his visits to Betsy, Pete and their children. He was always ready to get down and play, or go on any adventure Annabelle or Brendan desired (usually fishing). He looked forward to many more years of adventures that we will have to have in his honor instead. One thing is for certain: he was happiest when gathering family and friends around a table, sharing a home-cooked meal, sharing stories, and helping anyone in need. His larger-than-life personality could fill any room, and his kindness, generosity, and sense of humor left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at 10:00 am at Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish, 63 East Main Street, Rockaway. Interment will follow at Denville Cemetery. Family and friends are invited to celebrate Bob's life on Friday, June 12, 2026, from 4:00PM to 8:00 PM at Norman Dean Home for Services, 16 Righter Avenue, Denville.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages those wishing to honor his memory, to support an organization that was meaningful to both of you. They look forward to being reminded of the many causes he cared about, and the people who cared with him.

Though his final adventure came sooner than anyone wished, Bob leaves behind a lifetime of connection, celebrations, lessons, and everlasting memories. His journey continues in every trail explored, every story shared around a campfire, every student inspired to ask "why," and every family gathering filled with laughter. In addition to the unforgettable memories held by his family, we invite those who knew Bob to share their favorite stories, memories, or words of tribute on normandean.com. Bob touched the lives of many, and we believe his legacy is best honored through the stories and experiences of all who were fortunate enough to know him; let his light shine bright for eternity.