Cover photo for Thomas James Kelley's Obituary
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1929 Thomas 2003

Thomas James Kelley

May 5, 1929 — May 9, 2003

Thomas J. Kelley, 74 , of Echo Dr., Willimantic, went to be with his heavenly Father on Friday May 9, 2003. He passed away peacefully at home after a courageous battle with cancer. Tom was born May 5, 1929 in Willimantic, the son of Atty. Arthur T. Kelley and Lillian (Cheney) Kelley. He was a 1948 graduate of Windham High School. Tom then served with the occupational forces in Germany from 1948 to 1952. Upon returning home he served in the Reserves until 1955. He then served in the CT. National Guard with the 248th Engineering Squadron based in Norwich. Tom retired from the Guard after 18 years. He had been employed by Carter Chevrolet of Manchester for many years as the used car manager. He loved to fish, hunt, garden and do other outdoor activities. For several years, Tom served as camping and activity director for the Natchaug District Boy Scouts and was active in Scouting activities. He was a life member of Gold Star Post #1724 VFW and served as Post Commander in 1995. He was also a member of the James J. Shea Post #19 American Legion and the AMVETS. He was a member of the Veteran?s Council of Willimantic and had served as President and Treasurer. He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Doris (Tremblay) Kelley, 2 sons; Michael of Willimantic and James of New Castle, WA., 2 daughters and sons in law; Linda and Paul Naumec of Hebron and Jennifer and Oliver Phippen of Ridgefield, 5 beloved grandchildren; Sarah, Joseph and Andrew Naumec and Kelley and Dane Phippen. He is also survived by a brother and sister in law Richard and Linda Kelley of Willimantic, a sister and brother in law Therese and Joseph Regan of Buffton, S.C., a brother in law Lloyd Gray of Hebron and several special nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by a sister Lucille Gray. His family will receive friends at the Potter Funeral Home 456 Jackson St. (Rte. 195) Willimantic on Monday from 6:00 to 8:00pm. There will be a gathering at the funeral home on Tuesday at 8:30am prior to the procession to his 9:30am Funeral Mass at St. Joseph Church, 99 Jackson St., Willimantic. Burial with military honors will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery, Windham. In lieu of flowers, his family suggests memorial donations to Hospice of Eastern Ct., 34 Ledgebrook Dr., Mansfield Center, Ct. 06250.
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