John “Jay” Kelso, Jr., age 87, of Newark, Delaware, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 2, 2026.
Born in Wilmington, Delaware, on January 30, 1939, Jay was the son of the late John and Hazel Kelso. He was a graduate of Henry C. Conrad High School, Class of 1957, and earned both a bachelor’s and master’s Degree from the University of Delaware. Following graduation, Jay began his career at the University of Delaware, where he worked for approximately 50 years before retiring as a Programmer/Analyst.
Jay was a lifelong member of Marshallton United Methodist Church. He was an avid Phillies fan and attended numerous games throughout the years. He was also an enthusiastic collector of Phillies and baseball memorabilia. Jay enjoyed playing tennis and especially loved taking long walks at Carousel Farms.
For a period of time, Jay took flying lessons with Piper Airplanes on an old airfield where Barley Mill now stands. He once owned a “Sunfish” sailing boat, which he enjoyed sailing on the Bohemia River. He also participated in races and worked on committee boats.
Jay is survived by his sister, Jacquelyn F. Kelso of Wilmington, Delaware, as well as numerous cousins and friends.
A visitation will be held Friday, October 9, 2026, from 10:30 AM – 11:00 AM at Marshallton United Methodist Church, 1105 Stanton Road, Wilmington, DE 19808 followed by a service in celebration of John’s life at 11 AM. Burial will follow at Silverbrook Cemetery and Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Jay may be made to the Marshallton United Methodist Church Memorial Fund.
To send an online condolence visit www.mccreryandharra.com
