Gerald M Kelly

February 18, 1950 – February 28, 2025

Lived 75 years

Drexel Hill, PA

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STICK TOGETHER

In service to country

Thank you for your service

Gerald served in the armed forces. We honor that service here.

Life story

Gerald M. Kelly, better known as “Big Moose” was called home to his trusted Lord peacefully on February 28th, 2025 at the age of 75.

Moose was born on February 18, 1950 in Southwest Philadelphia to the late Catherine (Donahue) and Thomas Kelly. He was the youngest of six children and raised on the strong Irish Catholic values of family and faith. He attended Most Blessed Sacrament and West Catholic Boys High School. After completing his education, he went on to serve in the Vietnam War with the United States Marine Corps. His passion for serving and protecting others extended into his career as a firefighter in the Philadelphia Fire Department for nearly 30 years. He was very proud to be part of the brotherhoods of the Marine Corps “Semper Fi” and Vietnam Veterans.

Moose was best known for his charm and animated story telling. He could surely captivate a crowd and get the party started. He loved being silly and making others laugh. Moose was a man of strong principle that was never too busy to lend a hand, ear, or “couple dollas”. He was also a natural dog whisperer- never having to officially train them, just commanded their love and devotion through his spirit. His presence is already missed by his boys, Jaxx and Benny.

His legacy will continue on through his children: Michael(Kelly), Jesse(Gabrielle), Michelle(James), and Briana, and his grandchildren: Ethan, Michael, Nathan, Brayden, Willow, and James, and his ex- wife Bernadette, with whom he remained close friends. Moose’s frequent insistence that his children "STICK TOGETHER" has become their family mantra...reminding them to cherish and take care of one another unceasingly. His humor, warmth, and unwavering love for his family will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

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