Joseph Dean Kelly, 36, of Industry, IL, formerly of Carthage, passed away early on
Monday, July 21, 2025, at his home in Industry.
Joe was born on October 4, 1988, in Carthage, IL. He was the son of Tony Kelly and
Kathey Althoff. He graduated from Carthage High School in 2006. Joe loved to play
football and excelled for the Blueboys as a fullback and linebacker. During his youth, he
got to spend time participating in ride alongs with the local police and this began his
passion to be a police officer. After high school, he went through the police academy. He
then worked as a Sheriff’s deputy for many years. Joe was part of the Fraternal Order of
the Police. He also spent time working TSA, the post office, a prison guard, and
ultimately, he drove a truck full time for DOT foods. Joe enjoyed fishing, hunting, and
golfing. He loved spending time with his kids. Joe made it his mission to help people
and left a big impact on all those who knew him.
Joe is survived by his children, Lily Kemper, and Jace Kemper; his parents, Tony Kelly
of Carthage, IL, and Kathey (Robert) Snow of Quincy, IL; his siblings, Becky (Aaron)
Moander of Carthage, IL, and Jimmy Kelly of Davenport, IA; his grandpa, James Kelly
of Carthage, IL; his nieces and nephews, Alex, Cameron, Emma, and Eliza, as well as
numerous other aunts, uncles, and cousins.
He is predeceased by his grandma, Jewel Dean Kelly, and his grandpa, Marvin Althoff.
A funeral service will be held at 11 am on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at Printy Funeral
Home in Carthage. A visitation will be held prior to the service from 9 – 11 am.
Memorials may be made out to the family for a college fund for his children. Printy
Funeral Home is handling arrangements.