Robert (Bob) John Patrick Kelly, aged 78, passed away peacefully on March 6th, 2026, in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, after a long battle with cancer. He was surrounded by his loved ones during his final days on Earth.
Bob was born on October 10th, 1947, in Montreal, Quebec, Canada to Margaret Kelly and raised by his foster mother, Sybil Jezni, and later by his aunt and uncle, Doris and James Ballard. He attended McGill University before graduating from Concordia University with a master’s degree in philosophy. He worked many jobs over the years, eventually focusing on retirement planning. Bob was a proud Canadian and equally proud to have become an American citizen. He was married to Susan Kelly on 1/19/1991 and was the proud father and stepfather to five children.
Bob is survived by his wife, Susan Kelly; their children Brendan, Colleen, Alec, Hannah, and Ryan; and his grandchildren Trey, Eric, Sofia, Quinn, Christopher, Penelope, and Connor. He is preceded in death by his mother, Margaret, and his aunt, Doris.
Bob will be remembered best as a man of unmatched consistency of character, never wavering in his belief in the goodness of others or in his uncompromising dedication to do the right thing, no matter the cost. His strength through personal adversity was matched only by his ability to inspire it in others. He embodied the Catholic ethic, living his life with fierce devotion to his faith, his family, and his friends. He loved hockey, tennis, and the quiet times he was able to spend with family.
A requiem Mass will be held on March 11th, 2026, at 10:00 AM at Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church at 4580 SW 65th Ave, Davie, FL 33314. A brief wake will precede the Mass at 9:15AM.
A Burial will take place on March 11th, 2026, at 12:00 PM at Our Lady Queen of Heaven Cemetery, located at 1500 S State Rd 7, North Lauderdale, FL 33068.
There will be a brief gathering with food at the parish following the burial. Reach out to Ryan to details.
Cody McGinn
March 9, 2026, 3:57 pm
Sincerest condolences to Hannah, Ryan, and the entire Kelly family. May he rest in peace