Paul James Kelly

Paul James Kelly, 66, of Nacogdoches, Texas, passed away on February 22, 2024 in Garrison, Texas. He was born on November 26, 1957, in Bethpage, New York, the son of Thomas Francis Kelly and Muriel Agnes (Wunder) Kelly.

From 1980-1984, Paul proudly served in the United States Air Force, attained the rank of SRA (E4) and received numerous awards including the Air Force Training Ribbon, the Outstanding Unit Award, the Good Conduct Medal, the Air Force Longevity Service Ribbon, and an Honorable Discharge. His last duty assignment was with the 351 Strategic Missile Wing at Whiteman Air Force Base.

He was an employee of Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches Texas, working in the Physical Plant for 24 years, before retiring in 2009.

Paul will be remembered for being a loving husband, father and grandfather. He had a very gentle soul and kind heart. He never met a stranger and loved people. A lover of music, Paul spent many hours listening to Billy Joel. He was also a huge Dallas Cowboys fan.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Muriel and Thomas Kelly; sister, Geraldine and son, Paul Kelly Jr.

Paul is survived by wife, Connie Kelly of Nacogdoches; son, Danny Kelly and wife Sandra of Winnsboro, Texas; son, Brian Kelly, Holly, and Lilly of Cypress, Texas; son, John Mlinar and fiancé Jade Jones of Central Heights, Texas; and son, Justin Mlinar of Nacogdoches, Texas; grandchildren, Rhett and Laine Kelly of Winnsboro, Texas; brother, Joe Meehan of Arlington Texas, brother, Tom and wife Kathy of Long Island, New York; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Paul was very proud to have been a brain cancer survivor. He would want everyone to know that he was 32 years cancer free and that he beat cancer. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Paul’s most passionate charities: St. Jude, Wounded Warriors, or a charity of your choice.

Graveside Services with Military Honors will be at 2:00 pm Tuesday, February 27th, 2024 at Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery. A Celebration of Paul’s Life will be held on Saturday, March 23rd, 2024 from 2:00 to 4:00 pm at Cason Monk-Metcalf Funeral Home, 5400 North Street, Nacogdoches, Texas.