It’s with great sadness that I inform all my loyal readers of the death of Joe Kelly. Joe was intimately involved with my reform efforts within the Independence Party. Many people knew Joe as the former Chairman of the Erie County Conservative Party. He is also a family member to Congressman Brian Higgins. He was also my friend.
I’m stunned and in disbelief at this development. Joe was constantly in the hospital and had a pacemaker implanted in his chest. His real battle was with tobacco. Even though his health was rapidly deteriorating, he couldn’t quit smoking. He tried several times every year and would always return to the cancer sticks within a month.
Joe had many successes with his tenure as CP Chairman, but his biggest accomplishment was the great expanse of friends he gained over the years. He will truly be missed and my heart goes out to his kids and extended family. I hope Joe is in everyone’s prayers tonight. Christmas is in just a few hours and God now has another Angel to help him celebrate his birthday. God Speed Joe Kelly!
BUFFALO NEWS – December 25th, 2007
KELLY-Joseph F. Of South Buffalo, entered into rest suddenly, December 24, 2007, beloved father of Joseph, Jessica, Jillian, Amanda, Daniel and the late Lisa M. Kelly; loving son of Joseph M. and Patricia M. (nee Morgan) Kelly; dear brother of Colleen (Robert) Owen, Kevin (Susan) Kelly, James (Bonnie) Kelly, Peggy (Daniel) McFarland, Nora Driscoll and Patricia (Michael) Bollenbacher; also survived by nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and many friends. Relatives and friends may visit the LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME (Southtowns Chapel), 3060 Abbott Rd. near Lake Ave. on Wednesday from 7-9 PM and Thursday from 2-4 and 7-9 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Church, 3148 Abbott Rd., Orchard Park on Friday morning at 9:30 o’clock. (Please assemble at church). Interment Hillcrest Cemetery.
