Joel Hagan Kelly

Joel Hagan Kelly, 87, of Liberty, South Carolina, formerly of Mystic, Connecticut, husband of Barbara Gordon Kelly, passed away on Tuesday, June 3, 2025.

Born in Hartford, Connecticut on July 20, 1937, he was a son of the late Robert and Georgiana Slattery Kelly. Retiring as a BT Snipe from the United States Navy aboard the USS Davis, Joel's commitment to service did not end there. He lent his skills and expertise to the US Coast Guard as a Marine Surveyor and proudly served as a Connecticut State Trooper. Joel graduated from Wethersfield High School and later earned his associate's degree from New Haven University. Though his career was richly commendable, it is his role as a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather that truly defined him. With an infectious laugh and a penchant for "Irish Sarcastic Humor," Joel brought joy and lightness to the lives of those he cherished. He was a prankster at heart, always ready with a joke that would elicit laughter and warmth among friends and family. He had a heart as big as the ocean, always willing to extend a helping hand, his presence becoming a reassuring beacon for many in their times of need. In moments of leisure, Joel found peace and happiness in the company of his beloved dogs, especially Milo, his loyal companion, and Freddy who passed away. He cherished simple pleasures, whether it was the refreshing sip of an ice-cold pint of Guinness or the smooth warmth of a shot of Jameson. These moments shaped his days and created memories that will be treasured by those who knew him. His vibrant community spirit shone brightly as a member of the Moose Lodge in New London, Connecticut, and the VFW in Mystic, Connecticut. He held the esteemed position of President of the USS Davis Association, where he cultivated friendships and nurtured bonds formed through shared experiences and a comradeship that transcended the years.

In addition to his wife of over 50 years, Barbara Gordon Kelly, he is survived by a son, Brian R. Kelly (Joann) of Liberty, South Carolina; a daughter, Joelle C. Kelly of Port St. Lucie, Florida; a stepson, Lonnie Dow of New Bern, North Carolina; a brother, James Kelly (Eileen) of New London, Connecticut; a sister, Shelia Kelly-Dean of Ivoryton, Connecticut; six grandchildren, Deric Merritt, J’Mari Johnson, Kaitlyn Johnson, Sean Johnson, Kylie Johnson, and Kendyl Johnson; a great-granddaughter, Azariah Johnson; four nephews, Clark Finley, Patrick Finley, Michael Dean, and Connor Kelly; and two nieces, Meghan Finley, and Jillian Kelly-Berry.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by a stepson, Kent F. Legasse; a brother, Gregory Kelly; and a sister, Mary Kelly Finley.

The family will host a memorial service at a later date in Connecticut.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hasty’s Haven, 1228 Christopher Lane, Liberty, South Carolina 29657.

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