Thomas T. Kelley

Thomas T. Kelley, 75, of Junction City, passed away on July 11, 2012 at Geary Community Hospital. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend. Visitation will be Friday, July 13, 2012 from 6p.m. to 8p.m. at the Penwell-Gabel Johnson Chapel, 203 N. Washington Street. A Vigil service will be held at 7:30 p.m. with Father Al Brungardt officiating. Cremation will follow the visitation. Tom's final resting place will be at McClary Cemetery in Epsom, NH. Funeral services will be held there at a date yet to be determined. Memorial contributions have been designated to the St. Xavier Catholic School, P.O. Box 399, Junction City, Kansas 66441.

Tom was born on August 16, 1936, in Concord, NH, to Trueworthy and Susan (Jordan) Kelley. He was the youngest of six children, with two brothers and three sisters. He spent his childhood in Concord, NH, graduating from St. John High School in 1954. He then joined the United States Air Force, serving for 8 years active duty. After leaving the Air Force, Tom served in the Army National Guard, then the Air National Guard. A proud American, he spent a total of 35 years serving his country.

Tom was married to Linda Nickerson on October 25, 1962 in Plymouth, MA. They made their home in New Jersey until moving to Junction City, KS in 1978. Tom and Linda owned and operated Winchell's Donut House with their family until 2005. They enjoyed 49 years of marriage.

Tom Kelley was a life member and former Post Commander of the American Legion, Post #45, Junction City, KS. He was also a life member of VFW Post #1631, Concord, NH and 3rd Degree Knights of Columbus, Council 1029. Tom had been a proud member of St. Xavier Church since 1982, he and Linda renewing their vows there in 1983.

He is survived by his wife and best friend, Linda of Junction City, and by six children; Kathy A. Gallagher of Penacook, NH, Patrick T. Kelley of Manhattan, KS, Thomas S. Kelley of Commerce City, CO, Doreen A. Carr of Macon, GA, Sharon L. Dicks of Lawrence, KS and Mary C. Bobzien of Junction City, KS. He is survived by twelve grandchildren and six great grandchildren.
May the road rise to meet you, may the wind be ever at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face, and the rains fall soft upon your fields. And until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of his hand. We will love and miss you forever and always.