George Simon Kelly

George Simon Kelly, known to friends as "Big" passed away on July 19, 2018 at the age of 70 years.

Raised in East Chicago, Indiana, the son of Charles and Lucille Kelly Sr., he was a lifelong resident of the northwestern Indiana/Chicagoland area.  George attended the University of Indiana and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in business.  While attending IU Bloomington, Indiana, George became a member of Kappa Alpha Psi, the second oldest existing collegiate, historically Black, Greek-Letter Fraternity which is distinguished for leadership in community service & outreach activities. In addition, he was very proud of the impact he made as director of the local community center while in college.

George married Janet (née Eva Coleman) in 1968 while residing in Gary, Indiana and began a career in industrial sales. Although his first profession was successful and trailblazing, he retired from a second career as a faculty member of Joliet Central High School in Illinois.  George was truly gifted in his ability to relate to young people and found his mentorship role in education to be most fulfilling.

George was a believer of God’s grace and loved his family more than anything in the world.  He was outgoing too. George was most deft at a variety of activities that he really enjoyed including swimming, roller skating, partner dancing (specifically Chicago Style Steppin’) and playing the “pennies” card game with friends.  Also, he loved just chilling at home watching action movies & westerns, having great debates with his kids and of course watching his favorite teams the Bulls and the Bears.

John 14:3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and welcome you into My presence, so that you also may be where I am.

Mr. George Simon Kelly is survived by his daughter and sons: Eric Curry, Candice Kelly and Michael (Sakinah) Kelly; six grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; his siblings Charles Kelley Jr. and Joice Kelly; niece Bridgette; nephews Kenneth, Kevin, Keith, Charles III and Brian; his beloved goddaughter Demetrius and a host of relatives and close family friends. George’s passing was preceded by his parents, as well as, his grandson, Teric Curry.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, July 28, 2018 from 10:00-11:00 am at the funeral home.   Service at 11:00 AM.  Private interment.

Correspondences to the family can be emailed to candicekelly1908@aol.com.

If desired, Memorial Scholarship donations in memory of George Kelly can be made on-line via https://www.gofundme.com/george-kelly-memorial-scholarship.

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