of Conway, AR

July 31, 1943 - January 27, 2025

James Francis Kelly, 81, of Conway, Arkansas passed away on January 27, 2025. He was born on July 31, 1943 in Rutland, Vermont to TJ and Rita Kelly.

Jim Kelly, a loving husband, supportive father and legendary swim coach, left this world on January 27, 2025. A gifted storyteller, Jim never met a stranger-his charm and generosity made everyone he encountered feel like a friend and he left a lasting impression on all who crossed his path. Jim's infectious personality and unshakable faith were the foundation of a life dedicated to his family, his community and the athletes he coached.

Jim earned a degree in Physical Education while swimming at St. Bonaventure University in Olean, NY and later pursued a master's degree from Springfield College in Springfield, MA.

For over four decades, Jim's career as a coach and educator was marked by extraordinary success and a profound impact on those he mentored. In 1977, he was named Coach of the Year after leading Potsdam to victory in the SUNYAC Championship. Jim's ability to rebuild the Potsdam swimming program, which had lost three All-American swimmers, is still remembered fondly today. With his blend of science-based training and motivational leadership, Jim led his athletes to victory, often by entering them in the toughest events, like the 1650, 400 IM and 200 fly-events that required the kind of superior conditioning and resilience he cultivated in them. His swimmers remember him not only for his coaching expertise but for the humor, warmth and friendship he offered every day.

After Potsdam, Jim continued to shape the next generation of swimmers at Appalachian State University and then spent 31 years coaching both the men's and women's teams at Hendrix College in Conway, Arkansas. During his time at Hendrix, he earned numerous accolades, including being named the Arkansas Intercollegiate Conference Coach of the Year three times and the New South Intercollegiate Swim League Coach of the Year once. He coached 80 All-Americans and was deeply involved in the local community through the Hendrix Aquakids and as a professor of kinesiology.

In recognition of his many contributions, Jim was inducted into the Hendrix College Warriors Hall of Honor in 2005 and he was eagerly anticipating his induction into the Potsdam College Sports Hall of Fame in 2025, as coach of the 1977-78 Swimming and Diving Team.

Beyond his coaching achievements, Jim was a devoted man of faith. He was a proud parishioner of St. Joseph Parish in Conway, where he attended weekly Bible studies with Men of Faith and Forged, and was an active member of the Knights of Columbus. His faith was a cornerstone of his life, guiding him in his personal and professional relationships. Jim was also passionate about teaching others to swim-his Learn to Swim programs that introduced countless people in Conway to the water and it's no exaggeration to say that he taught most of the town how to swim.

Jim is survived by his loving wife, Margaret Kelly; his children, Krista (Paul) Huse, McKenna, Lexi and Calvin; Sean (Bess) Kelly, Alayna; Brian (Hilary) Kelly, Ella, Fiona, Finn; Kevin (Becky) Kelly, Jack and his sister, Maureen Hnatkovich. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Visitation will be held at 10:00 am on Friday, January 31st at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Conway, followed by the Rosary at 10:30 am and the Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 am.
Entombment will take place at Blessed Virgin Mary Mausoleum in St. Joseph Cemetery, Conway.

Obituary Provided By:
Roller-McNutt Funeral Home
650 Central Landing Blvd.
Conway, AR  72032
www.rollerfuneralhomes.com