In 40-odd years in show business, some years I could do no wrong, and some years I could do nothing right. Show business. I owe it everything - it owes me nothing.

She was admitted to Englemore Nursing Home in Englemore New Jersey on the advice of her old friend Ruby Keeler where Patsy Kelly underwent therapy. Later career
After leaving Hollywood Kelly returned to New York City where Patsy Kelly worked in radio and did summer stock. Kelly scored a huge success as the wisecracking tap-dancing maid and won Broadway's 1971 Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Musical for her performance in the show.

Kelly died of cancer in 1981. She continued appearing in film and television roles until Patsy Kelly suffered a stroke in January 1980 which limited her ability to speak.