Thomas Kelly

Vietnam Veteran and POW, retired Staff Sergeant, Thomas Francis Kelly of Evans, GA passed peacefully on August 16, 2021. Tom was born on April 30, 1939 in Atlantic City, NJ. His parents were John L. Kelly and Mary A Mellon.

“Papa Tom” was a beloved father and husband. After retiring from Fort Gordon, Tom continued his service to others as a Richmond County Deputy. Dad was a man of many traits, he was old school… he was brave, strong, honorable and would put himself in arms way to save a life. He never spoke about Vietnam but found solace when he fished at Clarks Hill Lake. Not only was he an avid fisherman, he was also a hunter and loved NASCAR. Dad was a man’s man who had a big heart and laugh that will be dearly missed.

Tom is survived by his wife, Allene (GUS) Kelly of Evans, GA, his cat “Bandit” and four children: Patricia Ann Kelly-Kramer of Karlsruhe, Germany and Thomas F. Kelly, Jr. of LinkenheimHochstetten, Germany, Kathleen Kelly Jones and David P. Jones of Grovetown, GA and Michael R. Kelly and Katy Kelly of Martinez, GA. He is also survived by two step daughters: Lynn and Rodney Shaw of North Augusta and Debbie and Rick Maybee of Evans, Georgia, two step sons: Mike Player of Augusta, GA and Rodger DuBose of Hartsville, SC. Grandchildren: Christopher “Chase” and Michelle Rachels, Katherine Kelly, Daniel Kramer, Stephen Maybee, Christopher Maybee, Brittany and Chris Brown, Nick Miller and Summer and Tim Bryan as well as 10 great grandchildren. Last but not least, his cherished niece, Eileen Kelly and the many highly regarded Kelly family members in California and New Mexico.

Tom was predeceased by his brother, John L. “Jack” Kelly and step daughter, Mrs. Karen Baynham.

Per Tom’s request, he will be cremated and a memorial service will be held at Stevens Creek Church- Atrium Saturday, August 21, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. All condolences may be received at 4507 Derry Claire Lane, Evans, GA 30809. Thomas L. King Funeral Home and Cremation Service is in charge of arrangements.

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