Obituary of Thomas James Francis Kelly

KELLY, Thomas “Tom” James Francis – Peacefully with his family by his side, Tom Kelly died at St. Joseph’s Hospice on Monday, April 6, 2020. Beloved husband of Sharon. Loving father of Dr. Kathleen Kelly (Joe Ross), Ottawa, Jennifer Verslype (late Brett), Sarnia, Thomas Kelly (Catherine), Sarnia, James Kelly (Tasneem Essaji), Toronto, and Michael Kelly, Point Edward. Proud Grandpa of Brendan, Sarah, Jack, Lilly, Claire, Sean, Leila, Patrick and Mariyah. Dear brother of Pat Walker (Don), Morinville, Alberta. Brother-in-law of Sheila Jellous (Bill), late Jack Hollingshead (Gail), Patrick Hollingshead, Andy Hollingshead, Barbara McSherry all of Ingersoll. Predeceased by his parents R. Thomas and Margaret Kelly. Also survived by many nieces and nephews. Tom's greatest passion and joy was his family. He fought a valiant battle against multiple cancers for the past fifteen years. He loved life and never gave up or complained. His kindness and courage will always be remembered. Tom graduated from the University of Western Ontario. He also studied at the University of Windsor and completed his Business Supervisory Officers Certificate. He worked for many years as the Superintendent of Business for the Lambton County Catholic School Board and the St. Clair Catholic District School Board. He was a strong supporter of Catholic education. Tom volunteered in many capacities through the Catholic Church, the St. Vincent de Paul, the Knights of Columbus, and numerous professional organizations. In his retirement, Tom loved getting together with his buddies for breakfast and golfing. He had great adventures with his very dear friends, the Morkins. They explored by boat and by car and had a grand time. Our family wishes to express our most heartfelt deep appreciation to Dr. Lilly and the nurses and PSWs at St. Joseph's Hospice for their incredible care. They made Tom's final days the very best they could be and we are eternally grateful to all of them. It helped our entire family knowing that he was in such an amazing place. Private arrangements have been made at this time to respect physical distancing. Mass of Christian Burial will take place at a later date with interment at Our Lady of Mercy Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to The McKENZIE & BLUNDY FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION CENTRE, 431 Christina St. N., Sarnia. In lieu of flowers, baskets and food, friends who wish to may send memorial donations to St. Joseph's Hospice, 475 Christina St N, Sarnia, ON N7T 5W3. Messages of condolence & memories may be left at www.mckenzieblundy.com