Ruby Kelly

  Ruby (Young) Kelly, 81, of Springfield, Massachusetts, departed this life peacefully on Sunday, January 25, 2026, at Baystate Medical Center in Springfield. Born in San Antonio, Texas, she was the beloved daughter of the late John B. Young and Addie (Lemmon) Young.

  A devoted educator who retired after 37 years of service with the Springfield Public Schools. She began her career at Classical Junior High and transitioned to Classical High School, concluding her distinguished career at Springfield Central High School.

  A phenomenal Physical Education teacher and cherished colleague, Ruby was highly respected by students, staff, and administrators alike. Administrators frequently relied on her wisdom, intellect, and uncanny ability to connect with teachers, students, and parents to build community. Lovingly known as “Miss Kel” or “Momma Kelly” by the student body, Ruby affectionately referred to her students as the “Kelly Kids.” As a patient, kind, and an exceptional listener, she instilled discipline with warmth and an unforgettable sense of humor. Her P.E. classes were engaging, joyful, and—above all—fun!!

  Student life at Central High School flourished under Miss Kelly’s leadership. She coached the Girls Track & Field and Basketball teams, and served as advisor to Classical High School’s first Drill Team. Ruby also advised several graduating classes, with her final class graduating in 2005. Her legacy includes coordinating memorable trips to Lake George, New York; Kings Dominion, New Jersey; and the 2005 Senior Class Cruise to the Bahamas. She organized Lip Sync Contests, Teacher Talent Shows complete with prize money, and countless school events including the legendary 1994 Pajama Jammy Jam Party. Deeply committed to student leadership, Ruby played an integral role in Student Government, Class Day activities, and celebrations that enriched school life for generations of students.

  Ruby served her church and community with the same passion she brought to education. She was a board member of Ahrra Credit Union (formerly the Springfield Teachers Credit Union). As a devoted member of Wesley United Methodist Church, Ruby faithfully served on the Staff Parish Committee, chaired the MLK Scholarship Committee, advised the Youth Group, and supported Loaves & Fishes, Prison Ministries, Boy Scout Troop 35, and the L.O.V.E. Group (Ladies of Vision & Excellence). She also served as Chairperson of the Church Council and was a co-founder of the Women’s Power Breakfast.

  Ruby will also be remembered for her deep love of music and unwavering service in the Wesley UMC Gospel Choir. She loved to praise and worship the Lord and could identify a song at a moment's notice. She expanded her love of singing through her involvement with the Western Massachusetts District Choir under the late David Marshall Jackson and with the Voices of Praise led by Terrence “TJ” Haynes. For her many students and the Kelly Kids she will be remembered as a second mother, an advisor, and for her wisdom.  She will be forever remembered for her beautiful smile, her affinity for the continent of Africa, and her commitment to making a difference through service.  Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched and changed.

  To cherish her memory Ruby leaves behind her husband, Eddie Gearing; her children, James F. Kelly Jr. (Yuland) and Shereese Kelly; her brothers, Benjamin H. Young Sr. (Benjamin Young Jr.) and John R. Young (John Young Jr); her grandchildren, Luke “EJ” Holsey, Alexandria Kelly, Addison Kelly, and James F. Kelly III; her bonus daughter, Tammy Grimes; her special “sista from another mista,” Pearl Wilkinson; many nieces, nephews, and a host of loving relatives, former students, colleagues, and dear friends.

Calling hours will be held from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at Wesley United Methodist Church, 741 State Street, Springfield, Massachusetts, followed by funeral services at 11:00 a.m. Burial will take place at Oak Grove Cemetery.

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