Dennis Kelly, RIP

 From Brian Harrington:

Heartfelt goodbye and thank you to Montfort alum Dennis Kelly. Dennis passed away at age 75 on 9/26/2022 while in memory care in Myrtle Beach, SC.

A Montfortian for just 2-years, he liked everyone he knew, and we liked him.

Dennis attended St. Mary Gate of Heaven grammar school in Ozone Park, NY and St. Leonard’s High School in Ridgewood, NY. Immediately thereafter he entered the S.M.M. in Hartford City, Indiana as a novice. He made his first profession of vows in August of 1966. The following month he began his college education at St. Louis University while residing at the McPherson Avenue residence of the S.M.M. After completing a first year at SLU, Dennis declined renewal of his vows, departed SLU, and returned to Queens County, NYC.

Those of us who knew him, especially remember his remarkable musical talent. Though he didn’t read sheet music, Dennis could pick up a random musical instrument, fiddle with it awhile and 15 minutes later, play a song on it. He sang and played guitar as a member of “The New World Singers” one of several Montfortian folk singing groups formed in the 1960s. Taken during his novitiate, the attached photo of that group includes [L to R]: George Sullivan, Jack Callery, Jack Lyons, George White, Steve Palmer, Larry Cullen, and Denis Kelly.

After his departure, Dennis sought to establish a new career path. He accepted a job as a New York City bus driver and did gigs as a recording studio session musician. He joined the Nassau County Police Department, from which he retired after 20 years of service. After that he became President of a private security service that offered protective services to entertainers, celebrities, and diplomats during their visits to the New York City metropolitan area.

A funeral Mass for Dennis took place at St. Mary Gate of Heaven Church and his remains have been interred at St. Charles Cemetery in Farmingdale, NY. Should you wish to send condolences to his wife Cathie, she may be reached by e-mail at: howell5632@aol.com or by telephone at 516-330-5958. In lieu of flowers, Dennis' family suggested that memorial contributions in his name be made to a foundation devoted to assisting victims and families of those afflicted with life threatening childhood diseases.

Katie McBride Foundation

506 Lakeville Road

New Hyde Park, NY 11040

May he Rest in Peace.

Brian Harrington

Investiture Class of 1961 

 

[L to R]: George Sullivan, Jack Callery, Jack Lyons, George White, Steve Palmer, Larry Cullen, and Denis Kelly.