J. Patrick Kelly

James Patrick Kelly
April 1941 – January 2025
James Patrick Kelly, known to most as Patrick, passed away in his home from stroke complications on January 3rd, 2025, with family by his side. He was born in Salt Lake City, Utah, in April 1941 to James Ordell Kelly and Fern Greenwood Kelly. He was the eldest of three children, with a sister, Nancy, and brother, David Mac, both of whom have since passed.
He is survived by his loving wife, Chloe Ann Kelly, and their five children: Kimberly (Steven), Christopher (Jennifer), Molly (David), Matthew (Jamie), and Michael (Angela). Patrick was a devoted father, grandfather of 14, and friend to many. His legacy of faithfulness, service, beating the system and finding a deal lives on in his children and grandchildren, who carry forward the values he instilled in them.
Patrick graduated from South High School in 1959. He was a proud member of the ROTC and went on to serve in the U.S. Army. His commitment to service continued throughout his life, both in his professional career and in his spiritual devotion. On June 1, 1962, he married his sweetheart, Chloe Ann Hutchings, in the Salt Lake City Temple, beginning a partnership that spanned over six decades. Together, they raised a family that was the foundation of his pride and joy.
Patrick was a lifelong learner and an educator at heart. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Brigham Young University, followed by a master’s from the University of Utah and a doctorate from the University of Illinois. He dedicated his life to teaching, mentoring students, publishing papers and speaking in conferences in the fields of advertising, marketing, and retailing. Patrick’s work took him around the world—he taught at universities in Virginia, Utah (BYU), Michigan, Israel, Hawaii, Turkey, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and more. A highlight of his career was his role as the Kmart Chair at Wayne State University, where he left a lasting impression on colleagues and students alike. Through his consulting with Kmart and many other businesses, he was able to save companies millions of dollars and increase sales with creative marketing and advertising. In 1997, he was honored with a Fulbright Scholarship to teach in Lviv, Ukraine—a reflection of his dedication to global education and his desire to make a difference.
In addition to his academic pursuits, Patrick was deeply involved in his faith. He served two full-time missions with Chloe Ann for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Their first mission took them to Freeport Grand Bahamas from 2003 to 2005. Their second mission in Hong Kong from 2011 to 2013 focused on overseeing the Perpetual Education Fund and Employment Specialist programs for the Asia Area. Patrick’s service also included leadership roles such as a Young Single Adult Bishop, various bishoprics, high councils, and as an executive secretary and clerk. He had a deep love for the gospel and was always eager to share the good news and serve those around him.
Patrick had a gift for finding a good deal—whether it was on travel, groceries, buying a new car, gasoline, or a useful gift for someone, he knew where to find it. He loved beating the system and was sure to share his “finds” with those around him. “Did you know you could buy three-gallon buckets of BYU ice cream for a discount?”
Patrick was also a master of all trades and loved using those skills to serve others. From making soups and famous “everything” cookies, to changing oil, mowing a lawn, fixing small appliances, explaining how to cut an onion the right way, helping with taxes, setting up trust funds, offering stock advice and so much more. If he could assist, he would be available to help.
Travel planning was also a passion. His family enjoyed many memorable trips, particularly cruises. He was a proud Elite Princess medallion holder. Traveling the world brought him joy, and his love for exploring new places was something he shared with his family and friends.
In these last months, as his health declined, Patrick’s strength, grace, and humility were ever-present. Despite the challenges, he was always delighted to see friends and loved ones. Those who visited were always rewarded with a huge smile. His family and friends rallied around him, providing comfort and care. His kindness was felt by all who knew him. He will be remembered for his generosity, his frugality, his intellect, and faithfulness.
Patrick will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy is one of love, learning, hard work and service. His memory will continue to inspire those whose lives he touched.