Anne Kelly

Anne Kelly, born on April 27, 1922, in Orange, NJ and passing away on February 26, 2025, lived a remarkable 102 years filled with warmth, adventure, and an unbeatable knack for connecting with people. She was an extraordinary woman whose energy was as vibrant as the sunshine on the shores of her beloved Merritt Island, Florida, where she peacefully spent her final days.

Anne's life was a fascinating tapestry woven with stories that spanned continents and generations. Her early years were marked by resilience and a strong work ethic, qualities that propelled her into the role of Executive and Personal Secretary for the renowned entrepreneur John J. McMullen. Anne knew how to get things done, an attribute that proved indispensable throughout her career and well into her retirement years.

After saying goodbye to her professional life, Anne transitioned seamlessly into becoming the unofficial social ambassador of her neighborhood. She had an unparalleled gift for networking and an infectious spirit that attracted people of all ages. Every Friday night, a lively congregation of 10-15 friends gathered at Anne’s home to share cocktails, laughter, and camaraderie—a tradition she cherished up until two months before her passing. Her holiday parties were legendary; they were more than gatherings—they were expressions of love, bringing together 50-60 people who always eagerly pitched in.

Anne had a rare talent for drawing younger people into her orbit, charming them into helping orchestrate her incredible events, including the grand 102nd birthday party that even had the caterer in awe! Her bubbly persona made every acquaintance feel like family, ensuring everyone felt included, welcomed, and deeply appreciated.

In 1974, Anne married the man of her dreams, Robert “Bob” Kelly, a retired executive from RCA. Anne and Bob's life together was a joyous voyage of social engagements and sailing adventures along the East Coast aboard ‘The Viking.’ They truly complemented each other’s love for life and people. Their arrival in Merritt Island after living in Little Silver, NJ for many years, transformed the local social landscape as Anne, naturally reaching out, quickly established herself as the center of the neighborhood’s social scene. Bob passed away in 2006, but Anne continued to be the center of the neighborhood’s social scene. 

Anne was a devout Christian, reflected in her commitment to her faith community at Holy Apostles Church in Satellite Beach. She lived her beliefs through acts of kindness and a genuine interest in the lives of others, remaining connected with friends both near and far, including those from her early roots in New Jersey.

Anne Kelly's life was a testament to the power of connection and the joy of living fully. She is survived by numerous friends and relatives who will forever carry her stories in their hearts, continuing to celebrate the legacy of this remarkable woman whose spirit brightened every life she touched. Anne did not have children, but she was often visited by her surviving nieces Jana Whedon and Cande Olsen, her grandnephew Greg Whedon and his wife Dana and their daughter Maddy. Anne is also survived by several other loving nieces and nephews. She will be dearly missed, but her life and her stories will live on in the memories of all who were blessed to know her.