"Big" John Kelly

December 28, 1970- May 1, 2004
This page is dedicated to my friend "Big" John Kelly who was killed in a drunk driving incident on May 1, 2004. John is another painful reminder that being a casualty of a drunk driving incident can happen to anyone. John was like a brother not only to me, but to those who knew him through his six years at Ashland University. At Ashland, he was a member of the Orientation Team where he helped new students adjust to the university and was a student worker for the athletic department. He majored in 1995 with a degree in recreation administration and worked at Syracuse University, Boston College, Albany, and Kent State University as their equipment manager.

Despite being 6'4, John was a gentle giant and he continues to live on through each of his friends. John was never short of a smile and his laugh could fill the room as he made many friends quickly. For 15 years I knew John and will always treasure the memories we shared, and his tragic death should remind us all of the dangers of drunk driving.

Below is some information that pertains to the scholarship that we have set up in John's name at Ashland University.

THE JOHN F. KELLY '95 MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP was established in 2004 by his family and friends to honor 'Big John's' friendship and life. The scholarship is to be awarded annually to an upperclass student who demonstrates scholastic improvement and is involved in Orientation Team and/or campus activities.

If you would like to donate, you can either click on the link below or your can send your pledge to Ashland University Development Office, 401 College Ave, Ashland, OH 44805. Please write on your check "The John F. Kelly '95 Memorial Scholarship, Account number 4-000-7241.

Click here to donate online