The outpouring of love and kind words from family, friends, and others who knew him has shaped this obituary. It couldn't be factual. It had to show just how special he was. Many said "once you got to know him, even briefly, you became his friend for life - he was just a great guy!".
His adventurous nature found him climbing mountains, hiking, camping, skiing, scuba diving, fishing, boating, golfing, and target shooting. Barry often walked the beach with his favorite companion, Cash, his "dog buddy/son".
He had long-time PA friends and found it difficult to retire because of his coworkers at MetEd and the love of his job. After retiring, Barry found friendships in South Carolina with his Philadelphia Eagle's football gang, dog park goers, golfing buddies, and Charleston Landing neighbors.
Barry's joy was fulfilled through faith in Jesus Christ. Because of that faith, he and his wife became members of the First Baptist Church of North Myrtle Beach.
He loved his family often recounting endearing and funny memories about his childhood with his parents and brothers. His favorite memories were of Harrisburg and his family's move to Arizona when he was just ten years old. Barry never forgot his first dog, Chipper, his first television, or the fun he had with his brothers over the years.
Barry's greatest joy was his daughter, Janine. A father and daughter relationship that grew into a stronger bond each year. He always told her she never had to move out and she always had her bedroom upstairs. Just recently, he gave his approval for her hand in arriage to her boyfriend, Aaron (Smith) knowing as he said "she picked a good one".
During his 31-year marriage to his wife, Trisha, Barry found himself on quite a journey. He never faltered but hung in for the ride. There was never a dull moment at the Kelleys...
He became a part of her large Italian family, embraced her family traditions, and co-hosted annual family reunions, parties, and celebrations for every occasion. Everyone was always welcomed at the Kelleys and some stayed for months. Barry adopted and rescued multiple pets knowing her love for animals. Because of her interest in real estate, his Sundays were often filled with open houses and looking at fixer uppers. His three home purchases revolved around Trisha's happiness. There is a countless list, but his greatest gift was just letting her be her. He would smile and shake his head knowing there was something coming next ... and he'd do it all for her.
For those he touched during his lifetime, the loss is beyond measure, unless we continue to celebrate his life. And, remember that Barry's now walking the streets of gold in Heaven.
There will be a graveside service at Forest Hills Memorial Park, 390 W. Neversink Road, Reading, PA 19606 on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. A procession line will form at the entrance of the cemetery at 10:30 AM with services to commence at 11:00 AM followed by a luncheon to celebrate Barry's life.
A Memorial Service will also be held at the First Baptist Church of North Myrtle Beach, 200 Highway 17 South, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582 on Saturday, April 13, 2024 at 11:00 AM followed by a luncheon.
In lieu of flowers, a donation can by mailed to the First Baptist Church at 200 Highway 17 South, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582. Please note on the check "In Memory of Barry Kelley".
For online condolences please visit www.LutzFuneralHome.com
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