Gerald A. Kelly
OBITUARY
Gerald Albrecht Kelly passed away on December 27, 2025, surrounded by family and loved ones. He lived a phenomenal life shaped by wit, quiet strength, deep compassion, and a steady stream of comic misadventures.
Born on January 8, 1931, in Minneapolis-St. Paul, Gerald (“Jerry”) is survived by his wife of 27 years, Phyllis Walsh Kelly–his partner in every sense, whose love and unwavering devotion lit every corner of his life. He also leaves behind what he proudly called his greatest accomplishment: his four children, 12 grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, and seven stepchildren.
Jerry served in the U.S. Army and was deployed to Germany during the Cold War. After his military service, he moved to San Diego, where he founded his successful insurance company, RKC, Inc., building it through hard work, invaluable relationships, and unwavering integrity.
Jerry truly loved people. He believed in doing right by others, lived up to his word, and built lifelong friendships founded on trust. He found joy in life’s simple pleasures: his dogs, Cuba Libres, chocolate milkshakes, and racquetball.
As we bid farewell to Jerry (aka “Honorable Father”), we celebrate a life well lived and a legacy that will continue to inspire us all. We love you, Jerry/Dad–and as he would always say in return, “Likewise.”