Gerard Patrick Kelly, or “Chappie from Woodlawn,” passed away on Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. He was 69 years old. Chappie was born and raised in Bunclody, Co. Wexford, Ireland, where he attended local schools. At an early age, he became involved with his local GAA club. The friendships he would develop at the games and his selfless nature would serve him well later in life when he decided to get involved in local politics. His passion for politics lended itself to many vigorous debates which were enjoyed by all.

After graduating from secondary school, Chappie went to work as a delivery man for Greenhill Foods. His wit, humor and love of people continued to serve him well as he travelled throughout Ireland visiting his many customers. However, it was wanderlust that would one day drive him to New York.

Chappie worked as a limousine driver when he first came to New York. After an experience in Sheepshead Bay with a client who ran out of her house scantily clad, Chappie decided he had had enough. He took a job on the Upper West Side as a concierge for The Bolivar residence. Playing chess with more responsible clients was more in keeping with Chappie’s style.

Chappie’s sense of adventure continued until he would finally meet the love of his life, Edel Boland. Like most lifelong adventures, it began with a cup of tea and stimulating conversation. As the saying goes, the rest is history. After an eight year courtship, Chappie and Edel would wed and later be blessed with a wonderful son, James. Chappie and Edel were married 16 years.

In his spare time, Chappie loved to travel. His passion for history, music and travel would lead him to many places in the United States. He appreciated the southern states and enjoyed studying Black history and civil rights. He thoroughly enjoyed attending the Met, the New York Philharmonic and the Tanglewood Music Festival in the Berkshires. His ultimate passion was to debate furiously on topics of history, politics and social justice.

Chappie will be remembered as demanding a sense of fairness. He will also be remembered for his honesty, integrity and compassion for those in need.

He is survived by his wife, Edel Boland, and his son, James. He will be missed by his siblings, cousins, friends and extended family in Ireland, England and Australia. Chappie will continue to be cherished by all those he held dear.

A celebration of Chappie’s life will take place at the Pelham Funeral Home, located at 64 Lincoln Ave., Pelham, New York, on Saturday, Nov. 10, from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. A funeral service will take place at a later date in Bunclody, Co. Wexford. For more information or to leave a condolence, please visit www.pelhamfuneral.com.