James Kelly

Kelly, James V., 92, died January 12, 2015 at Miriam Hospital. He leaves his beloved wife of 56 years, Joan, children Joyce C. Bercaw and husband Robert, James D. Kelly and his wife Christine, and David S. Kelly, and his grandson Rob Bercaw.

Jim grew up in Providence in a large extended Italian family. He was a decorated veteran of WWII, landing in Normandy with the 3rd Armored Division. He attended RISD and Rhode Island College and worked for the Providence Recreation Department.

In 1955 he began his career with the Boys Club of America as Physical Education Director, then Program Director at the Wanskuck Boys Club and the Fox Point Club. In 1967 he became the first Director of the North Providence Boys and Girls Club, retiring in 1985. He was an accomplished artist.

He was a devoted family man and was always active in his parish church. He was a member of the Rotary Club of North Providence (formerly Woonasquatucket Valley), for 44 years, where he held many offices both local and nationwide, and had perfect attendance for most of his tenure. He was a devoted Red Sox and Patriots fan.

His funeral will be held Friday at 9 am from the Robbins Funeral Home, 2251 Mineral Spring Ave., North Providence with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 am in St. Thomas Church, 65 Fruit Hill Ave., Providence. Burial in St. Francis Cemetery. Calling hours Thursday 5-8 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Thomas Church.