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SENECA, SC – Patrick Tadgh Kelly, 85, husband of Jacqueline Lamson Kelly, of Seneca, passed away on Sunday, May 31, 2026, at his home.
Born June 27, 1940. Raised in Big Rapids, Michigan, Dr. Kelly was the son of the late Milton and Jean Pearce Kelly.
After attending Northern Michigan University, he went on to graduate from the University of Michigan’s dental school. From there, Dr. Kelly served in the United States Navy and was a proud veteran. After his time in the military, he continued his career at his practice in Marquette, where he surrounded himself with outstanding staff that he valued greatly. He enjoyed his patients and the relationships he established. He was a faithful member of St. Michael Catholic Church in Marquette, and St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church in Seneca, SC.
Along with his wife, Dr. Kelly is survived by his sons: Sean, Brian, and Tim (Lisa) Kelly; daughter: Mehgan Kelly; brother Dennis (Elizabeth) Kelly; sister: Gail (Richard) Bowman; grandchildren: Samantha (Patrick) and Landen Lundquist, Averie, Cole, Ace, Pearce, Harper, and Harrison Kelly; and great-grandchildren: Jasper, Octavia, and Shawn Lundquist.
For 13 years, he, along with his wife, went to Cochabamba and the jungle city of Trinidad, Bolivia for two weeks at a time performing free dentistry services for the poor. He would always say that he “received more than what he gave” and was very fond of the time he spent there getting to work with the dedicated nuns of Bolivia.
For several years, he hosted ‘Smiles for Charity’ at Christmas, where donations were given and distributed to various charities in Marquette.
He moved to Seneca, SC in 2006, where he volunteered at the local hospital, Habitat for Humanity, and he was on the board for Wilderness Way Girls Camp and volunteered at their resale store. He also participated in the Armory Men’s Group at St. Paul’s the Apostle, where he shared his wisdom and his faith.
Patrick enjoyed being active, keen on running and biking. He participated in the Ore to Shore for many years as one of the oldest participants, and had a love for mountain biking, often going with his son Tim.
He was a family man through and through, known to his grandchildren as “Beepa.” he was a constant supporter of their endeavors and cheered them on at every stage.
He was a man of strong faith and deeply loved his lord.
A family celebration was held in Seneca and an interment at Holy Cross Cemetery in Marquette, surrounded by loved ones, with Father Jed Patrick presiding.