James Kedra Service Information

James Joseph “JJ” Kedra passed away unexpectedly on August 25, 2024 at the age of 41.

JJ was born on April 15, 1983 to parents James and Susan. He was the oldest of three children. His younger sisters, Christine and Beth, were his first friends. As a kid, he loved the playgrounds and streets of Frankford. He eventually found his way to Juniata, where he was welcomed by an elite group of guys. JJ settled in Port Richmond and quickly became an active member in the neighborhood.

A proud 2001 graduate of North Catholic, JJ played soccer, basketball and even kicked a few footballs his senior year. He managed to receive honors in high school and went on to play soccer and basketball at Holy Family University, finally graduating on “JJ time.”

JJ made friendships and memories bartending. He could be found in Moore’s Inlet, The Ould Sod, Callahan’s, Chickie’s and Pete’s, Keenan’s, and of course The Rhawn Pub. He loved the Rhawn so much that the people there became family. JJ excelled in the bar business and met so many people. If anyone ever needed anything, he would say “I got a guy.” Later, JJ became an electrician, joining the brotherhood of local 98.

After years of friendship, JJ started a relationship with Eileen Haigh in 2010. Their friendship turned into love and they were married in 2016. Shortly after, they started their family. JJ will leave behind a legacy as a loving father to Jack and Michael. His boys were his greatest joy. He was their role model, their protector, their hero.

JJ never missed the opportunity to celebrate the lives of his nieces and nephews - Jason, Jane, Joey, Isla, Brynley, Conor and Dillon. JJ was honored to be the godfather to 4 of them. He cherished the title “uncle JJ.”

His summers were spent on the beaches of stone harbor and wildwood making memories with his in-laws - Bill, Eileen, Billy, Ryan and Jamie.

JJ will be deeply missed by aunts, uncles, cousins and numerous friends. JJ lived his life to the fullest through simple pleasures. May his laughter and kindness live on in our memories.

Relatives and friends are invited his visitation on Friday, Sept 6^th from 8:30 to 10:15am at St Matthew Church, 3000 Cottman Ave.  Funeral Mass will follow at 10:30am.  Interment Our Lady of Grace Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers family prefers donations to the Kedra Children Education Fund in c/o Phila Police and Fire Credit Union, 901 Arch St. Phila PA 19107.

Send Flowers And Gifts