John William Kelley, age 78, of Newark, Ohio, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 2, 2026. He was born in Newark on April 23, 1948, to the late Homer and Francis (Wilson) Kelley.

John loved baseball from a young age and continued to enjoy the game throughout his life, playing slow-pitch softball as an adult. He spent countless hours on the ball field playing the game that he loved. John was also proud to share his love of the sport with his family. He enjoyed watching his grandson play lacrosse. For many years he helped coach his granddaughters’ softball teams and was a devoted supporter of the Lakewood softball program. In later years he especially enjoyed watching his great-grandchildren play t-ball and soccer. Of all his accomplishments, John was most proud of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

John worked as an electrician and was a proud member of Electrical Local Union #1105. He was a hardworking man who was always willing to lend a helping hand. He helped both of his children build their homes, sharing not only his skills, but also his time and love with his family. John also had a love for gardening and enjoyed canning the fruits of his labor so he could share them with family and friends. He was especially known for growing the best sweet corn, which he shared with those around him. John will be deeply missed.

He is survived by his children, Stan (Sandy) Kelley and Carman (Ryan) Robinson; grandchildren, Chase (Hannah) Robinson, Megan (Reed) Moran, Emma Kelley, Casey (Michelle) Robinson; great-grandchildren, Haven, Clara, Cooper, and Myles; siblings, Fred (Bev), Bob (Bev), Dick (Jeannie, Mike Wolfe, and Marilyn (Mike) Fox; many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Francis “Sis” Wolfe.

Visitation will be held from 3pm-5pm Tuesday, October 6, 2026, followed by a 5pm memorial service at Brucker and Kishler Funeral Home, 985 N 21st St, Newark, Ohio 43055, Pastor Bob Beyer officiating.

Following the memorial service, the family will gather at Jacksontown Road Church of God, 6445 Jacksontown Rd., Newark, Ohio 43056, to celebrate John’s life and share memories with family and friends.

John will be remembered for his generous heart, his willingness to help others, his love of family, and the many memories he created both on and off the ball field. He will be deeply loved and missed by all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in John’s memory may be made to, Lakewood High School Softball ℅ Lakewood Athletic Boosters, note softball, 9541 Swamp Rd. Hebron, Ohio 43025, Attn: Jon Griffith or the Heath Fire Department, 193 Heath Rd, Heath, Ohio 43056.

To order flowers locally, please visit www.johnedwardpriceflowers.com/ 

To order memorial gifts please visit memorial-gifts-at-brucker-kishler.myshopify.com/