John Raymond Kelly
April 7, 1969 - July 8, 2024

John Raymond Kelly, 55, of Wilmington, North Carolina, left this earthly world on Monday, July
8th, 2024, at Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center.
John was born on April 7th, 1969 to Ida I. Donatelli and the late Raymond L. Kelly. John was a
graduate of John T. Hoggard High School. After high school John worked various construction
jobs before enlisting in The United States Army. John would complete two tours overseas, in his
military tenure. When John’s enlistment was complete, he would return to Wilmington, where his
broad construction background ultimately played a vital role in his family’s business, I&B
Maintenance and Repairs. John was a jack of all trades, and was always willing to lend a hand
to anyone in need.
In the peak of John’s construction career, it was discovered that his selfless acts of courage
from his time overseas, caused him to be exposed to elements that would ultimately leave him
disabled. Those who knew John Boy, knew that he never let those harmful chemical exposures
and physical ailments slow him down.
In John’s free time, you could find him camping on the North End, fishing with friends, knocking
back a shot of fireball at his favorite local bars, and religiously watching his Dallas Cowboys and
NASCAR. It was no secret John Boy was the life of the party. George Strait described John’s
life best when he said, “ I’m ain’t here for a long time, I’m here for a good time”.
John is reunited with his mother, Ida I. Donatelli, birth father Raymond Kelly, father & best
friend, Errol “Butch” Donatelli. Uncles Bobby Moore, Burley Moore and Aunt Beadie Barnhill.
John leaves behind two children Zachary (Terri) Miller, of Novelty, MO & Kyndal (Jacob)
Abernathy, of Marshalltown, IA.. John was survived by three of his aunts Carrie Seeley,Benita
Herring, and Allie Williams. John also leaves behind three grandchildren Grant Parsons,
Hannah Parsons, & Kase Miller, all of Novelty, MO. John also leaves behind his longtime best
friend and partner in crime, Darryl (Angel) McGee, along with countless cousins, nieces,
nephews, and other extended family.
On the behalf of John’s request no funeral will be held. Instead, friends and family are welcome
to stop in at his favorite local bar, Cody’s South Bar, on Saturday the13th for a celebration of life.
John will be cremated, and have a close family ceremony with military honors at a later date.

Arrangements are in the care of Coastal Cremations, 6 Jacksonville Street, Wilmington, NC 28403.