The death of city resident Paul Kelly which took place on March 18th aged only 56 has shocked and saddened many people not to speak of the incalculable blow it has dealt to his loving family and extended family circle. Paul, originally from Portadown lived at Mullacreevie Park and is survived by his wife Geraldine, sons Patrick and Kieran and daughters Coleen, Kerrie, Gemma and Janet. He came to live in Armagh in 1971 and immediately got involved in the community quickly making friends and new associates and soon had become an integral part of life in his adopted city. He was a keen and gifted sportsman, played hurling with the Portadown based St Malachy's Hurling Club and soccer football with Armagh Celtic He was also a noted pigeon fancier and racing pigeons became his main sporting interest in later years meeting several new friends. Paddy was a hard working family man and was employed as a roofer with the city firm of McArdle Brothers for 14 years before taking up a driving job in 2007 delivering sweets. Shortly after that he was diagnosed with lung cancer, an illness he bore with tremendous fortitude and acceptance. Paddy kept his spirits up right to the end and remained the heart and soul of any family get-together. Even in his darkest days he unselfishly thought of others and never complained. He was an exceptional man and the courage he showed throughout his illness bore testimony to his outstanding character and goodness. He was a true gentleman, a loving husband, devoted father and grandfather and many are the memories he has left for all to cherish. He will be sorely missed by the entire Kelly and Mitchell family circle, friends and colleagues and indeed anyone who had the pleasure of knowing him. Paul's well attended funeral mass was celebrated in St Malachy's Church, Armagh on Saturday, 21st March and burial took place in St. Patrick's Cemetery. Armagh Observer, 16th April 2009 Tweet

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