Michael Edward Kelley

Michael Edward Kelley (Retired Chief of Police), 88, of Whiting, passed away, Tuesday, September 13, 2016, at Community Medical Center, Toms River.  Retired Chief Kelley was born in Keyport.  He attended St. Joseph Grammar School, Keyport and St. Mary’s High School, South Amboy.  Just out of high school in 1944, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving with the 7th Fleet throughout the Pacific Theatre during World War II.  After receiving an Honorable Discharge, he earned an accounting degree from Drake Business School.   He was a lifelong sports enthusiast, he pitched in NJ league baseball, played basketball, was an avid golfer, among other sports.

He joined the police department as a Special Police Officer in 1954.  He was subsequently appointed to Patrolman and earned his way through the ranks to Sergeant, Captain and then in 1978, was promoted to the Chief of Police.  He completed over 30 years of service with the Keyport Police Department.  Chief Kelley was keenly aware that education was critical to keep abreast of technology and human resource advancements in our society.  In addition to basic training at Sea Girt State Police Academy, he also attended Command School; and Instructor Training School.  He took additional courses in Criminology, Traffic Records, Community Relations, Civil Rights and Safety.

Chief Kelley was a man who served his community with dedication.  He was a member and Fourth Degree Knight with the Knights of Columbus; International Chiefs of Police; New Jersey Chiefs of Police and Monmouth County Chiefs of Police Association.  His experience earned him positions to the Executive Board of the Monmouth County Chiefs of Police and Central Jersey Film Library.  He was also Past President of the Monmouth County Chiefs.  Over the years, he had received many awards and commendations. He was named Policeman of the Year in 1977 by the Knights of Columbus and he was recognized by the American Legion; Kiwanis; Mayor and Council; and Superintendent of Schools. 

Retired Chief Kelley is survived by his beloved wife, Mary Grace “Penny” (DeMatteo) Kelley; two daughters, Penny Malinowski of Smithville; and Nina Pantozzi and her husband Paul of Ocean Ridge, FL; a grandson, Thomas Malinowski; a brother, William Kelley and his wife Lee of Nashville, TN; and many  nieces and nephews.  He will be dearly missed and fondly remembered by his family and friends. 

Visitation will be Friday, September 16, 2016, from 9:30AM-11:30AM, at Day Funeral Home, 361 Maple Place, Keyport, NJ  07735; with an 11:30AM Mass of Christian Burial at St. Joseph RC Church, Keyport.  Interment will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery, Keyport.  To post a condolence to the family or for directions to the funeral home, please visit www.dayfuneralhome.com.