It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Edward Kelly, founder of Bridge Overseas, after a short illness.
Edward is survived by his loving wife, Julie, his daughter Laura, his sons Mark, James, Christopher, and Simon, and his cherished grandchildren.
A lifelong enthusiast of chess and bridge, Edward also held a deep passion for sport. He was a loyal supporter of Northampton Rugby Club, Essex Cricket Club, and, above all, his beloved West Ham United, where he was a season ticket holder for many years. While his teams did not always achieve the success he hoped for, Edward approached life and business with resilience, good humor, and determination.
After qualifying as a cost and management accountant, his career began with one of the largest U.S. companies before he went on to establish his own successful confectionery business.
After retiring from that venture, he combined his love of travel and bridge to create Bridge Overseas, a small holiday company that continues to thrive today under the leadership of his eldest son and grandson. Remarkably, Edward only fully retired in 2019, just months before the pandemic, his timing, as ever, was impeccable.
Edward would be the first to admit that he had enjoyed a “good innings,” though he would have liked to bat on. Sadly, rain has now stopped play.
As per his wishes, a small private ceremony will be held in South Wales on the 11th of September.
Edward will be sorely missed by his family, bridge friends, colleagues, and all who were fortunate enough to know him.
