Cover photo for Thomas  Joseph Kelly's Obituary
Thomas  Joseph Kelly Profile Photo
1944 Thomas 2009

Thomas Joseph Kelly

December 27, 1944 — May 5, 2009

Obituary Thomas Kelly Thomas J. (Tom) Kelly has left this world after 64 years passing on May 5th 2009. Born on Dec. 27, 1944 in Liberty, New York, Tom served as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, soldier, educator, mentor and friend to many. He leaves behind his wife of 40 years Rae Ann, daughter Laura with husband Rick Takagi; son TJ with wife Sarah; grandchildren Delaney, Ethan, Gabriel, Addison and Isaac and two brothers Terrance and Timothy. Retiring in 1996 as a full Colonel of Infantry, Tom completed 30 years in the U. S. Army serving throughout the United States, and in Europe, Asia, South East Asia and Central America. Among his military decorations are 3 Silver Stars, 2 Legions of Merit, 3 Bronze Stars for Valor, the Purple Heart and the Combat Infantryman's Badge. He served with the 2d BN ?" 2d INF, 1st Infanrty Div and the 2d BN, 1st Special Forces Group in Viet Nam. He also served in peacetime with the 101st ABN Div (AALT), 8th Inf Div, commanded the 5th BN ?" 21st INF, 7TH Infanrty Div (L) and the FT. Lewis Readiness Group. After retirement from the Army, Tom entered K -12 education as an administrator. Serving first with the Superintendent of Public Instruction for the State of Washington spending 2 of these years as Deputy Superintendent and Chief Operating Officer. He later served as the Superintendent of the North Mason School District. Tom greatly enjoyed working with others and had a well-deserved reputation for fairness and honesty. He prided himself in being a mentor to younger, developing soldiers, administrators and teachers. Tom always tried to make a positive difference in every situation and greatly respected the dignity of everyone; recognizing their innate goodness. A physical fitness enthusiast Tom enjoyed cycling with his son, golfing with his wife and friends, hiking, backpacking, skiing, and most all playing with his grandchildren. " I am grateful for the many opportunities the Good Lord has provided me. My life was exciting and fun. I met and enjoyed many people, from many cultures in many countries. God provided me a wonderful family who brought me great joy. My wife Rae Ann is a wonderful strong woman who is my best friend. I extend my thanks to all those with whom I have had the pleasure of being involved with over the many years. God has been good to me and my family!" Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, May 9th, 2009 10:00 am at St. Patrick Catholic Church. Vigil will be held on Friday, May 8th, 2009 7:00 pm at Gaffney Funeral Home Chapel. Interment Tahoma National Cemetery with full Military Honors, Tuesday, May 12, 2009 at 10:15 am. Please leave online condolences at www.GaffneyCares.com. Arrangements by Gaffney Funeral Home, 253-572-6003. In lieu of flowers family suggests donations be made to www.pancan.org or Franciscan Hospice House.

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