Alice Mary Kelleher, 85, of Grand Rapids, passed on to her heavenly reward on January 24, 2021. Alice was born to John and Ida (Jaques) Breen on February 24, 1935 in Newport, Rhode Island. She married the love of her life, Thomas A. Kelleher, Jr. (Commander, US Navy), on September 28, 1957 and had four children: Kevin Kelleher, Katee (Randy) Thurman, Jackie (Vince) Wheeler, and Nancy (Brendan) McCarthy. She is preceded in death by her parents, her devoted husband, Tom (1976), and her brother, John ‘Buzzy’ Breen. Alice is survived by twelve adoring grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.
Alice enjoyed travelling, was a prolific painter, and loved skiing, tennis and golf. She treasured every moment spent with family and friends.
Alice had a love for life and a contagious positivity that impacted every person she met. Her profound kindness to others and her genuine happiness are a testament to a life well lived. She has now seen the face of God, had all of her questions answered, and been joyfully reunited with her loving husband. Her death is greatly mourned, but not nearly as much as her life is celebrated. May she rest peacefully in the presence of her Savior.
Family will greet visitors 10:00 am Friday, January 29, 2021 at St. Stephen Catholic Church, 750 Gladstone Dr SE, East Grand Rapids, MI 49506 with Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 am. Rev. Scott Nolan presiding. Interment Arlington National Cemetery. Masks and social distancing will be required.
Memorials may be made to Right to Life of Michigan (rtl.org)
9 Responses
We all loved Alice, she was just fun to be around. Always cheerful and I dont remember her ever complaining. It was an honor to have known her since the 70’s with the Bayside crowd.
I’m so sad to hear of Alice’s passing. I have many happy memories of our being neighbors and friends. My heart goes out to her very large and loving family. Everyone will be in our prayers. Love Carol and Bob Arbuckle.
Katee, I’m so sorry for your loss. I remember pictures of you and your Mom on fb. My deepest sympathy. Mary McClellan
We McDonalds cherished our time with Alice and our parents. She was one of our Mother’s best friends and their adventures were always interesting! Alice raised four amazing kids and was the glue that held them all together, through the loss of their Dad to the raising of their own kids. Alice has always been the center, the calm…the peace, and the party!! I am so sorry for your loss, but so grateful you all had her in your lives! She was a very special lady.
I am so very sorry for your loss, sweet Katee. May God embrace you and your family and comfort you all. From everything I have seen on FB that you posted with your family, it is obvious she was so loved by her children. What a beautiful lady, what a beautiful family. Wish I could give you a hug but know my heart is hugging yours during this time of grief. ❤️
Katee I am so sorry for your loss. I can’t imagine the pain you’re going through. Love you – let us know if you need anything. XOXO
I am so sorry for your loss,your mom such a great lady,tennis player enjoyed our skiing trips,I will cherish the memories.My deepest condolences.I will have you in my prayers.
Katee, please know that you and your family have constantly been in my prayers and thoughts. Your mother was a wonderful woman with a wonderful family. Katee please know I’m always here for you, my best friend .
Love you,
Donna
Mark and I are thinking of you and send our thoughts and prayers for peace. Love Mark and Betsy