James Donald O’Kelly, 82, of Concord passed away, Sunday, November 1, 2026, surrounded by his family at Tucker Hospice House.

He was born February 24, 1944, in Cabarrus Co. to the late Daniel Willard O’Kelly and Minnie Pennell O’Kelly.

James was a graduate of A.L. Brown and Rowan Cabarrus Community College, James served his country serving in the U.S. Army, he was a supervisor at Cannon Mills until they closed, he then went on to work part time at RCCC, He was a former Ham radio operator, James loved playing golf and traveling and he treasured his time with family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother Oscar Stackleather, and sister Betty O’Kelly Bresett.

Those left to cherish his memory, his wife of 39 years and caregiver Anita O’Kelly, son, Richard O’Kelly (Angela), grandsons, Daniel O’Kelly (Michelle), Ryan O’Kelly (Kendyl), brother, Homer Stackleather, Richard’s mother, Sharon O’Kelly, and numerous nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM, Monday, November 9, 2026, at Memorial Baptist Church in Kannapolis with Rev. Jason Barber officiating, a visitation will be held prior to the service from 1:00 to 2:00 PM at the church.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Cabarrus Co. Hospice 5003 Hospice Ln. Kannapolis, NC 28081 or to the donor’s choice.

Online condolences may be left at www.whitleysfuneralhome.com.