Funeral details announced for respected Shields Gazette reporter Terry Kelly

Terry, who worked at the Gazette since the early 1980s, died on January 13.

The 57-year-old passed away at his Jarrow home after spending the last 14 months battling a virus which had attacked his lungs and seen him endure months in various hospitals.

A Requiem Mass will be held for Terry at St Matthew’s Church in York Avenue, Jarrow on Wednesday, February 17, followed by cremation at South Shields Crematorium in John Reid Road.

Loved ones have requested family flowers only, but donations can be made in lieu of St Clare’s Hospice. Terry, who was married to Val and father to Kate, will be resting at the Co-operative Funeral Chapel in Jarrow.

A family spokesman said: “Terry was a much-loved husband, father and brother. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.”

Joy Yates, Shields Gazette editorial director, said: “Terry was one of the smartest, wittiest, kindest colleagues you could ever wish to meet.

“It has been a huge honour and privilege to work with him.”

Jarrow-born and bred, Terry attended St Bede’s RC Secondary school, before completing his A-levels at South Tyneside College.

Terry, a huge Bob Dylan fan and poetry lover, then studied an English literature degree at Sunderland Polytechnic before later completing an MA in the subject at Newcastle University.

He then landed his first role in journalism at the Blyth Post.