John R. Kelly

John R. Kelly, passed away on September 7, 2025, at the age of 75. A lifelong resident of Canton, Ohio, he was born on April 22, 1950, to his late parents, Jack and Janice (Kandel) Kelly. He was also preceded in death by his sister, Priscila Nemetz.

He was the owner/operator of Kelly Plumbing and Heating and was a Stark County Sheriff for 38 years. He was well-known and respected as a hard-working, dedicated man who served his community proudly and without reservation. John found much joy, fulfillment, and had genuine concern for the well-being of others. He was an avid hunter and fisherman and was proud of being known as a semi-professional fisherman, for a short time.

John is survived by his best friend and wife of 40 wonderful years, Schelie Kelly.

Family and friends are invited for visitation on Friday, September 12, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Lamiell Funeral Home, Canton, where the service will follow immediately at 1:00 PM. Interment will follow at Forest Hill Cemetery, Canton.

We invite all who knew John to share memories, stories, and photos, as John's incredible journey will be a guiding light to all the lives he touched.