Mary "Julie" Julia Kelley

Mary “Julie” Kelley, age 51, a longtime resident of New Orleans passed away on Saturday, July 9, 2022 in Ocean Springs.

Julie or Julz as she was fondly known was born on November 23, 1970 in Oxford, Mississippi.  Julie was raised in Ocean Springs, but New Orleans was her home.  Julie was a fixture in the Bywater community. She previously was employed with BJ’s Lounge and developed lifelong friendships. Julz had an unforgettable sense of humor and was a natural giver. She loved to plan events in the neighborhood, would spearhead assistance for anyone in need and could cook up some one pot dishes to share with all who wanted a hot meal.  Like her big sister Lisa, Julie adorned the crown and reined as Queen of Krewe of Dreux in 2007.  Julie had a special place in her heart for animals and enjoyed caring for her dog “Duke”.  Julie will forever be missed.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Dan Leonard and Delta Maddox Kelley and Irving and Mary Jackson Malone. 

Julie leaves behind her parents, Leonard and Joyce Kelley; brother, Joey (Leslie) Kelley; brother-in-law, Steve Conners; sister, Connie Tartini of Philadelphia, PA; nieces, Caroline and Emma Tartini; nephews, Michael Tartini and Jacob Kelley; extended family; and beloved friends from Ocean Springs to New Orleans who meant so much to her.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the ASPCA or a local animal shelter in memory of Julie and “Duke”.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, July 14, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. at Bradford O’Keefe Funeral Home in Ocean Springs.  Friends may visit beginning at 10:00 a.m. until service time. Burial will follow at Crestlawn Memorial Park.

Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home, Ocean Springs is honored to serve the family of Mary “Julie” Kelley.