Jim Kelly - RIP

Friday 30th April 2021

David Vipond writes:

I think that everyone in our local community feels a deep sadness at the news of Jim's death.

I first met him about twenty-five years ago when he moved to Penpol, although I believe he had connections here, for many years before that. These are my fond recollections of him. He was a person who not only wanted to live here, but wanted to become involved and serve the local community. This he did in many unheralded ways, until the latter years when he became unwell.

He was a Christian and loyal, regular worshipper at St Veep. For many years he was a church warden, and his care and diligence was a great support to both the congregation and the incumbent clergy. He oversaw the maintenance of the church and kept all informed about the wellbeing of the parishioners.

He was a member of the Royal British Legion and a staunch supporter of the “Poppy Appeal”.

He loved Lerryn and served it in many practical ways. He was soon elected onto the village hall committee, and for many years served as secretary helping to keep it running smoothly. He was on the committee when the scheme to rebuild the village hall for the millennium was mooted, and helped to bring this into fruition.

Since the early days, Jim became a mainstay of the Lerryn Players. He not only performed on the stage, but helped in many practical ways behind the scenes.

He served on the LAMA minibus committee and for many years was one of the fund raisers. He gave a great deal of service as a driver on shopping and pleasure trips.

Whenever it was time to erect the marquee on the village green for village night or other events, Jim would be there, sledge hammer in hand. Jim also used to mow the green on a regular basis. Jim had been an active sailor, and for several years kept a sailing boat at Penpol. He participated in the early Seagull Races, in one of the smallest boats, with perhaps the most dilapidated engine, showing great enthusiasm, but less success.

Jim loved folk music and he played the banjo. In his earlier days he was a friend and follower of a moderately successful folk group called the Rambling Boys. In Lerryn, he often joined Paul King's band, playing his banjo in the background. He played for the village carols in the hall and at several 'gigs' around the area.

Jim was a thoroughly decent, caring person, and could always be relied upon to help wherever he could. We all have a lot to thank Jim for.

Thank you Jim, rest in peace.