A United Airlines employee lost his life due to the worldwide pandemic Coronavirus on Thursday.
According to the obituary of Mr. James "Jim" Anthony Kelly, 58, on April 2nd, he lost his battle from complications of COVID-19.
Jim, formerly of Fair Lawn, NJ, had lived in the Beach Haven West community of Manahawkin, for the 28 years. He worked as a Lead Aircraft Maintenance Technician for United Airlines at Newark Liberty International Airport for the past 33 years.
Officials said those who worked closely with James were ordered to self-quarantining for 14 days at home. As of Sunday, airline officials would not confirm if any other employees who worked with James are severely ill from Coronavirus, but an employee speaking on anonymity said there are two additional mechanics on ventilators while the other workers and a supervisor are self-quarantining at home.
There was one other United Airlines confirmed fatality from the coronavirus pandemic. Officials said in March, Mr. Carlos Consuegra, one of their Ramp Service employees, died several days after contracting the illness.
Officials said Carlos was a member of United Airlines' hub since 2007.
Airline officials said employees in that line of work are considered "essential workers" and must perform their regular schedules daily.
James' family said he was the most reliable and caring son, brother, uncle, neighbor and friend. His family, friends and neighbors are sure there was nothing he couldn't fix.
"When he wasn't working on airplanes, he spent his time working on cars, his boat, his house and anything his family and friends needed. He was an avid fan of the New York Giants, loved Long Beach Island, traveling and spending time with his family and friends," according to family members.
Due to the current pandemic, a memorial service will be planned by his family at a later date.