Obituary of Joseph Michael Kelly

August 5, 2026

Joseph Michael Kelly, a dedicated attorney, loving father, and cherished grandfather, passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home in New York City on August 5, 2026, at the age of 87.

Born in New York City on October 14, 1938, Joseph was the son of the late Joseph D. Kelly (1906–1962), an officer and detective in the New York City Police Department, and Mary Kelly (née Sura) (1906–1964). Raised in the Washington Heights section of the city, he attended Xavier High School before moving to Central New York to pursue his higher education. A devout Catholic throughout his life, his faith guided his commitment to family and service. He earned his undergraduate degree from LeMoyne College in Syracuse, New York, and went on to complete his Juris Doctor at Syracuse University College of Law.

Joe dedicated his professional life to the practice of law and the service of his community. He possessed an incredible work ethic, routinely devoting long hours to his practice and fighting tirelessly for his clients. For many years, he operated a private practice as a sole practitioner in Syracuse and later in Liverpool, offering steady counsel to the community with a special focus on family law. Later in his career, he clerked for the Onondaga County family court supervising judge, the Honorable Bersani, and then served in the Onondaga County Family Court system. He managed a unit of attorneys that represented the county in Family Court, advocating tirelessly for the best interests of children–ensuring their access to insurance coverage, enforcing child support obligations and establishing and pursuing parental obligations.

Outside of his career, Joseph’s greatest devotion was to his family. He was a naturally happy, easygoing person with an endearing sense of humor who was genuinely well-liked by all who knew him. He enjoyed tackling home projects, particularly fixing things around the house and working with wood—crafting creations that were sometimes genuine masterworks, and other times had a distinctly "amateur DIY" charm that brought plenty of laughs. He treated everyone with respect and kindness, leaving a lasting impression on many, from the officers in the courtrooms he served to the nurses and caregivers who truly enjoyed working with him and being in his company.

He was predeceased by his three sisters, Anne, Joan, and Rosemary.

Joseph is survived by his wife, Marlene Kelly (née Darminio); his three sons, Brian, Jonathan, and Stephen; and his ten grandchildren, whom he loved deeply.

Joseph will be remembered for his legal acumen, his friendliness and sense of humor, his steadfast devotion to serving his clients, and his unwavering love for his family. 

A private remembrance will be held by his family. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions in Joe's name be made to Rosary Hill Home, 600 Linda Avenue, Hawthorne, NY 10532.