Maura Patricia "Pat" Kelly

maura kelly
Maura Patricia Kelly, 86, of McLean, Virginia, passed into eternal life with the Lord on February 4, 2021. “Pat”, as she was fondly known by all, was born in Brooklyn, NY, on June 5, 1934. She was a graduate of Marymount High School and Marymount College in New York. Pat was predeceased by her parents, Edna and Edward L. Kelly; her brother William E. Kelly and his wife Grace Kelly Bast; her nephew Edward P. Kelly; and her closest friend, Jean Gilligan. She is survived by many nieces, nephews and their spouses: (Alison) of Spring Lake Heights, NJ, William E. III (Diane) of Middletown, NJ, Robert of Pt. Pleasant, NJ, Richard (Marybeth) of Brielle, NJ, Ellen Gerard (William) of Spring Lake, NJ, Elizabeth of Shark River Hills NJ, Elaine Giuliano (William) of McLean, VA, and Michael (Patricia) of Brielle, NJ; 23 great nieces and nephews; and 10 great grand nieces and nephews.

Pat grew up in a devout Catholic family devoted to public service that began with her grandfather, William E. Kelly, Postmaster of Brooklyn, NY appointed by President Wilson in 1914. Her father, Edward L. Kelly, served as New York City Judge. As a young girl, Pat helped her mother, Edna F. Kelly get elected to the United States House of Representatives in Congress in 1949 representing Brooklyn, NY for 20 years.

Pat began her career working as a research analyst for the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Un-American Activities. Shortly thereafter, she began her service as a legislative assistant to then Members of U.S. Congress: Edna F. Kelly, Martha W. Griffiths and Matthew F. McHugh. Pat then assumed her role of legislative assistant to the U.S. House Rules Committee. In 1979, she took over as Editor of the U.S. House Daily Digest of the Congressional Record. As one of the longest serving employees ever to work for the U.S. House of Representatives, fifty-three and a half years, Pat Kelly served in both Republican and Democratic Administrations and was an admirable public servant in “The People’s House.”

Pat was an avid golfer and followed sports all her life, especially as a long time fan and season ticket holder of The Washington Football Team. She will be dearly remembered for her generosity of spirit and her reputation as quick witted and funny.

Upon her retirement on March 1, 2011, six House Members, including Speaker John Boehner and Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, paid beautiful tributes to Pat for her lifetime of dedication and long service to the institution in floor speeches with a lovely celebration following.

Pat moved from her long time residence in Alexandria to Arleigh Burke Assisted Living in McLean in 2014 and quickly became a beloved member of their vibrant community. Pat passed away peacefully with family at her side.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. John the Beloved Catholic Church

In McLean, Va., on Thursday, February 11, 2021 at 2:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project.

View current weather.

Memories Timeline

Guestbook

    • Aunt Pat was a woman deep faith and values as she enjoyed talking,following, & seeing all of the Kelly family over her lifetime. We will all greatly miss her. Rest in Peace. Love Richard,Marybeth,Elise, & Andrew & All their Families

  1. Planned remarks for church service by Nephew, Richard Kelly: Pat Kelly, known as our Aunt Pat, was a devout Catholic, devoted daughter, sister, and aunt to her loving family. She loved her entire family and enjoyed visits and calls to keep up with the activities of the families. She was undoubtedly the “Kelly Family Historian”. In her spare time, she loved visits to Spring Lake to see her brother, Bill, and nieces and nephews; playing and watching golf; and cheering on her Redskins. She enjoyed her team even though her beloved brother was a diehard Giants fan. Many memories of fun visits and spirited family debates. She offered guidance and advice to all and was the Aunt who never forgot birthdays. A public servant for others to emulate. She tirelessly worked for 53 years for The People’s House and strongly believed in our democracy. She will be sadly missed but always remembered by her nieces and nephews, and grand-nieces and grand-nephews.

  2. Pat Kelly was my dear friend and one of a kind. I knew Pat for 50 years, having worked on the Hill and served with her on the board of the Congressional Secretaries/Staff Club for many years. To know Pat and her closest friend Jean Gillingan was to know happiness and joy. My God’s richest blessings go to Pat’s family. I know Pat loved all of you, just as you loved her. Fowler West


Sign the Guestbook, Light a Candle

Accessibility Tools
hide