Mary L. (Axotis) Kelly

Mary L. (Axotis) Kelly, 89, of Menasha, passed away on Thursday, March 1, 2018 at The Heritage in Appleton. She was born in Fond du Lac on February 27, 1929 to Alex and Antoinette (Solamita) Axotis. Mary graduated from L.P. Goodrich High School in 1947. She was united in marriage to James Kelly, Sr. on August 28, 1952 in Fond du Lac where they resided for several years before moving to Neenah and later Menasha. He preceded her in death on July 14, 1989.



Mary was a devoted wife to her late husband, Jim and mother to James, Jr., Michael, and Alexis. She was a great advocate of many community causes. Together with her husband, she founded and led the Rusty Rails, a regional association of retired railroad employees. She was a lifelong member of Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in Fond du Lac, serving on both the Parish Council and Philoptochos Society.



Mary will be warmly remembered for the way she always thought of others first, her welcoming smile and being a joy to talk to. She was a great storyteller, baked incredible banana bread, gave warm hugs and was a confidante to many.



Survivors include Michael (Gloria) Kelly; two grandsons, Roy Olson, III and Luke (Nina) Olson; her son-in-law, Roy Olson, Jr.; a daughter-in-law, Diane Kelly; her sister, Dolores Christ; her sister-in-law, Maria Axotis; and many nephews, nieces, godchildren, other family and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; a son, James Kelly, Jr.; her daughter, Alexis Olson; her brother, Tony Axotis; and her brother-in-law, Christ Christ.



In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church and/or a memorial to be established in Mary’s name.



Visitation will be held Monday, March 5, 2018 from 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM, with Trisagion Prayers beginning at 9:45 AM at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 198 N. Macy St., in Fond du Lac. A funeral service at the church will begin at 11:00 AM with Fr. Ted Trifon officiating. Burial in Rienzi Cemetery will follow the services.