Catherine "Pat" Patricia Kelly

Pat passed away peacefully at home on December 5, 2022, at the age of 88. Born and raised in the Bronx, she completed her Bachelors Degree and Masters Degree in Education at Hunter College. Her 40 year teaching career began at P.S. 87 in Manhattan. After moving to California with her husband Jim and four children, she taught English and Social Studies with San Jose Unified School District, retiring from Willow Glen Middle School. She inspired thousands of students through her love of learning. Her adventurous spirit lasted her lifetime, exploring the West, National and State Parks, with a favorite being Big Basin. She created a home filled with music, dancing, and laughter.

Pat is survived by her children, James Kelly (Eliza,) Catherine O’Sullivan (Michael,) Eileen McCarthy (Mike,) Deirdre Kelly (Brian Balfrey,) Grandchildren Michael McCarthy, Thomas McCarthy, Grace Kelly, Pearse Kelly, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Predeceased by her husband Jim Kelly, and her grandson Ronan McCarthy.

A memorial mass for Catherine will be held Friday, December 30, 2022 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM at St. John Neumann Catholic Church, 5101 Alton Pkwy, Irvine, CA 92604. A reception will occur Friday, December 30, 2022 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, 5101 Alton Pkwy, Irvine, CA 92604. An interment will occur Friday, December 30, 2022 from 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM at Ascension Cemetery, 24754 Trabuco Road, Lake Forest, CA 92630.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.tridentsociety.com/location/laguna-woods-ca for the Kelly family.