PORTLAND — James E. Kelly, 85, husband of the late Barbara Knauer died peacefully on Friday, Sept. 14.

He was born June 23, 1927, in Rumford, the youngest son of Anna (Anderson) and William S. Kelly. Jim graduated from Stephens High School, Class of 1945 in Rumford. He was a star basketball and baseball player during those years. He attended the University of Maine at Farmington, until he entered the U.S. Army.

Jim retired from U.S. Customs Service. He was a member of St. Pius the X Church in Portland. He enjoyed family reunions at Roxbury Pond and playing cards. Jim was known for his sense of humor and great stories.

Survivors include his children, James M. Kelly and partner, Priscilla McHale, of Gorham, Kathy Strange of Portland, Stephen Kelly and wife, Linda, of Gorham, Paul Kelly and wife, Lynne, of Portland, Maureen Smith and husband, Ralph, of Westbrook, Jane Conroy and husband, Ed, of Dover-Foxcroft, John Kelly of Vietnam, and Robert Kelly of Portland; grandchildren, Aaron and Anna Strange, Sarah Carrier, Michael Kelly, Kelly Smith, Joshua, Elizabeth and Ali Conroy; stepgrandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and Jim leaves many special friends over the years.

He was predeceased by his wife; and his son-in-law, Glenn Strange.

The family wishes to give a special thank you to the Mercy Hospital staff, especially Mercy Cardiology as well as the staff at Gosnell Hospice House.

Online condolences may be sent to www.dolbyfuneralchapels.com.