The University of Cincinnati and its Bearcat community are mourning the loss of Jim Kelly Jr., a beloved UC Hall of Famer, star athlete, and iconic voice of Bearcats football.
Jim passed away on Sunday night, October 12, 2025, surrounded by his loving family after a courageous battle with cancer.
He leaves behind an incredible legacy, not only as a talented athlete and broadcaster but also as a devoted husband to his wife, Sarah Rielly Kelly, and a proud father to his four sons, Kevin, Dave, Scott, and Brian, and their families.
Jim Kelly Jr.’s wife, Sarah Rielly Kelly, was his partner in life and a fellow graduate of the University of Cincinnati.
Their shared connection to UC likely strengthened their bond, as both understood the pride and passion that come with being part of the Bearcat family.
Sarah stood by Jim’s side through his remarkable career, from his days as a star wide receiver for the Bearcats in the 1970s to his 38 seasons as a color analyst in the radio booth.
Together, they built a life filled with love, family, and an unwavering commitment to their community.
Jim Kelly Jr. was a Cincinnati Native Through and Through
Growing up in the 1960s, he served as a ball boy for the Bearcats, watching his father, Jim Kelly Sr., who played for UC from 1947 to 1950 and later served as a coach and administrator until 1994.
Following in his father’s footsteps, Jim Jr. became a standout wide receiver for the Bearcats from 1972 to 1975.
During his college career, he caught 76 passes for 964 yards, earning his place as the team’s leading receiver from 1973 to 1975.
His talent and dedication on the field earned him induction into the James P. Kelly UC Athletics Hall of Fame in 2017, joining his father as one of the only father-son duos in the hall, alongside William Keating Sr. and Jr.
After graduating with a business degree, Jim signed as a free agent with the Chicago Bears. Unfortunately, an injury cut his professional football career short.
Undeterred, he returned to Cincinnati, where he served as a graduate assistant coach before transitioning to a successful career in business.
However, his heart remained with the Bearcats, and in 1988, he joined the UC football radio booth as a color analyst.
For 38 seasons, with a brief three-year break from 1992 to 1994, Jim’s voice became synonymous with Bearcat football, bringing games to life alongside broadcasters like Paul Keels, George Von Benko, and Dan Hoard.
Jim had a front-row seat to some of the most memorable moments in UC football history.
He called iconic games, such as the “Pike to Binns” play, the BIG EAST Championships, and BCS Bowl appearances, under coaches Brian Kelly, Butch Jones, and Tommy Tuberville.
He witnessed the Bearcats’ rise under Luke Fickell, with stars like Sauce Gardner and Desmond Ridder leading UC to the Peach Bowl and the College Football Playoff in 2020 and 2021.
Even in his final days, Jim remained a fixture in the booth, covering the first three games of the 2025 season in the Scott Satterfield era.
His Warmth and Generosity Touched Countless Lives, as Seen in the Heartfelt Tributes Shared After his Passing
Jim Kelly Jr. was more than just a broadcaster; he was a vibrant presence in the Cincinnati community.
Penny J. Alder Jusko, a friend from the Angelman Syndrome Foundation (ASF) walk in Cincinnati, remembered Jim’s kindness and dedication.
She wrote-:
Jim was a star at our ASF walk and donated his time to sing for us for a few years, He also was our master of ceremonies. What you may not know about him is that he was the voice of the University of Cincinnati Bearcats.”
Via Facebook
Penny shared how Jim proudly wore his ASF shirt, sparking conversations about the cause and inspiring donations.
Even in his final days, Jim texted her to express gratitude, showing his unwavering kindness.
Neal Bendesky, another member of the UC community, spoke of Jim’s huge impact. He wrote
From the broadcast booth to the postgame celebrations, Jim was always playing the beat of Bearcat pride—through his voice, his guitar, and his heart, Jim Sr. was a mentor to me, and his son carried that same spirit, always making everyone feel part of the Bearcat family.”
Via Facebook
Neal noted that Jim reunited with his 1975 teammates just two days before his passing, a testament to his lifelong connection to the University of Cincinnati Bearcats.
Dave Kelley echoed these sentiments, calling Jim “the heartbeat” of UC football.
He wrote-:
“Whether behind the mic or walking the sidelines of Nippert Stadium, Jim brought warmth, wisdom, and a deep love for the Bearcat family, His legacy and spirit will echo through UC forever.”
Via Facebook
Jim Kelly Jr.’s connection to UC was deeply personal. Growing up around Bearcats football, he followed his father’s path while carving out his own legacy.
The James P. Kelly UC Athletics Hall of Fame, named after his father, symbolizes the family’s enduring impact on the university.
Jim Jr.’s pride in his alma mater was matched only by his love for his family.
His wife, Sarah, and their sons were his most significant source of joy, and he leaves behind a legacy of love and togetherness.
The overwhelming love following Jim’s passing highlights his impact. From Archbishop Moeller High School to UC, he was a Cincinnati icon.
His voice united people, and his kindness made him beloved in the Bearcat community.
As Cincinnati mourns Jim Kelly Jr., his legacy continues through his family and his contributions to UC athletics.
His wife, Sarah Rielly Kelly, and their sons, along with fans, will never forget him. Rest in peace, Jim Kelly Jr.—a true Bearcat legend.
