James W.Kelley (Jim), 89, of Pembroke passed away July 16, 2026, at home after a brief illness family by his side.
Jim was born to Ed & Mary Kelley of Quincy. Graduating Quincy High Class of 1955. Jim received the All American Award for his academic& athletic abilities. He was inducted into the Quincy High Hall of Fame 2006 holding the record of 24 yds per catch. His athletics earned him a scholarship to Florida State playing for the Seminoles. Jim was sidelined with an injury and returned to Mass during 1958.
Jim joined the Mass State Police and was present at both the Concord & Walpole prison breaks. He also aided in the hunt for the infamous Coyle Bros during 1959. Jim was assigned protection detail to Colonel Devlin Head of Civilian Defense. He eventually transferred to the Foxboro Barracks. During his high school years Jim attended the Marine Air Reserve at So. Weymouth Naval Air base and active duty training at MCAS Cherry Point,NC. He left the Mass State Police for active duty in the Army. He attended basic training at Fort Hood Texas Hell on Wheels Division moving on to Fort Gordon, GA Military Police Academy. He graduated #1 of 600 and became an Aid to General Hobson of the Armed Forces patrolling 5 Burroughs of NY. He returned to Mass as Aid to Major Fox patrolling 5 N.E. States. Jim was an Expert Marksman.
Upon completion of his service Jim worked as a PT assistant trainer at Foxboro Raceway. His love of horses continued throughout the years eventually owning his own thoroughbred race horses. Jim joined the Registry of Motor Vehicles in 1970 working out of Quincy, transferring to Plymouth after moving to Pembroke. Whether in the office, patrolling or doing examinations Jim loved his job and the people he worked with he retired in 1992. Jim was known for his love of Cadillacs purchasing his first in 1957 and continued owning Cadillacs up to his passing. He was also known for spending Sundays at the Raynham Dog Track with his Granddaughter Kellie or daughter Kathy. He was a great handicapper stating it’s just names and numbers. Jim was predeceased by his parents Ed & Mary Kelley, his wife Elizabeth Kelley and his brother Lt. Ed Kelley. Jim leaves behind his daughters Lisa Balboni of Kingston and Kathy Kangiser and her husband Roger of Berkley. His grandchildren Kellie Kangiser of Raynham, Nick Filandrianos of FL, Angelica Filandrianos of Kingston, and Samantha Reckis, and 6 Great Grandchildren. Jim will always be remembered as number ONE to many.
A private family service will be held at the Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne.
Donations in Jim’s memory may be made to Old Colony Hospice