James W. Kelley Jr.

GRANITEVILLE - James W. Kelley, Jr., 74, of Graniteville, Vermont, passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, May 29, 2025, surrounded by family and friends after a courageous four-year battle with cancer. A devoted husband, loving father, a hell of a papa, and a friend to many, Jim will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to family, his strong work ethic, and his big heart. Jim was born in Barre, Vermont, on June 9, 1950, to James Kelley Sr. and Bernice Belville.
From a young age, Jim developed a love for working with his hands, a passion that carried through his life. A true jack of all trades, he found fulfillment in jobs where he could build, fix, and create, always happiest when elbow-deep in a project. On December 31, 1971, Jim married the love of his life, Linda Bilodeau. Together they built a life full of love and laughter, raising three children: Mike, Tammy, and Becky. Jim was endlessly proud of his family and found his greatest joy in being “Papa” to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Jim lived life full throttle and nowhere was that more true than with his love of racing. For years, he was a regular at Thunder Road in Barre, cheering from the stands and soaking in the roar of engines. His favorite driver at Thunder Road was none other than his brother, Tommy “Thunder”, whom he supported with pride every lap. He was also a devoted NASCAR fan, with the late Dale Earnhardt Sr. being his all-time favorite. One of Jim’s greatest passions was bowling, a sport he enjoyed for over 40 years. Whether competing or just spending time at the lanes, it brought him great joy. He was also a lifelong car enthusiast and, during the CB radio days, proudly went by the handle “Tinknocker.” Jim also had a deep love for dancing, whether it was a twist with his wife Linda, a lively polka with Annie, or a graceful waltz with Barb, he embraced every moment on the dance floor with joy and heart. In recent years, Jim found joy in trips to the casino with his wife Linda (the true gambler, as he’d say) and their dear friends Mike & Sherry Lamberton and Joe & Tina Lovely. These outings were filled with laughter, fun, and friendship — just the way Jim liked it.
Jim is survived by his beloved wife Linda of Graniteville, VT; his son Mike and wife Amy of Williamstown, VT; daughters Tammy and husband David of Washington, VT, and Becky and husband Travis of Fort Myers, FL. He also leaves behind two sisters, two brothers, many nieces and nephews, and the biggest joy of his life: 12 grandchildren and more than 20 great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by three brothers and one sister.
Jim’s humor, generosity, and steady presence left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. He was the kind of man who showed up, pitched in, and made people laugh. His legacy of love, strength, and integrity will live on in the hearts of his family and friends. He will be deeply missed. A special thank you to Emily from Hospice, who spent Jim’s final moments with us and provided immense support in the days prior. Anyone wishing to make a donation in Jim’s honor may do so to Central Vermont Home Health & Hospice.
In keeping with Jim’s wishes, there will be no traditional service. Instead, a celebration of his life will be held on June 6, 2025, at the VFW in Barre, VT, from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Please feel free to stop in at any time, stay as long or as little as you like to enjoy a bite to eat, raise a toast to Jim, or simply say hello to his family as we honor a life well lived.
Arrangements are in the care of Pruneau-Polli Funeral Home, 58 Summer St. in Barre.
Those wishing to express online condolences may do so at www.pruneaupollifuneralhome.com