It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of our colleague, Mike Kelly, on October 10, 2025. Mike suffered a massive heart attack as he was entering the Composite Repair Center earlier this morning.
Mike had been a dedicated member of the American Airlines team since 1988, serving our organization with distinction and dedication for over 37 years. At the time of his passing, he held the position of Aviation Maintenance Technician, a role in which he took great pride and demonstrated exceptional expertise.
Our thoughts and condolences go out to Mike’s family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, and his contributions to our team will not be forgotten.
Michael Joseph Kelly Obituary
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the unexpected passing of Michael Joseph Kelly of Tulsa, Oklahoma on Friday, October 10, 2025.
Born on Monday, April 29, 1957 in Queens, New York to Marianne (Keck) Kelly and Joseph A. Kelly, Michael was the middle of five siblings. Known for his rocker hair, easygoing nature, and free spirit, he was the family peacekeeper and a friend to many. He graduated from Princess Anne High School and later moved to Oklahoma to pursue a career in airline mechanics.
Michael dedicated nearly 38 years to American Airlines, where he earned the affectionate nickname “Popcorn” for his daily snack deliveries—and he knew every person’s doughnut order by heart, though he may have had notes as a reminder. Beyond work, Michael gave his time and heart to his church and community, serving faithfully at Ablaze Church, always willing to take on any task needed.
He had a love for good whiskey, his beloved dogs—Sam, Boo Boo, and Romeo—and when his granddaughter, Rozlyn, would greet him at the door after work.
Michael is deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his son, Andrew Kelly; his daughter, Alyssa Kelly (Sam); his granddaughter, Rozlyn; and his sisters, Joanne Baines (John), Karen Smith, and Julie Hart (Tommy). He also leaves behind a large circle of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends who were touched by his kindness and humor. He was preceded in death by his brother, Martin Kelly (Suzy).
Michael’s warmth, love, and light will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. To honor his generous spirit, the family requests donations be made to Ablaze Church.
Visitation 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. Friday, October 17, 2025 at Add’Vantage Funeral Service.
Funeral service 11:00 a.m. Saturday, October 18, 2025 at Ablaze Christian Academy, 4901 South 177th East Avenue, Tulsa, Oklahoma 74134. Burial will follow at Floral Haven Cemetery, Broken Arrow, Oklahoma,
Isaiah 40:31