Thomas Kelley

Thomas Kelley, born September 19, 1935 in Lotts Creek, Kentucky, passed away peacefully at the age of 88. Thomas was one of 12 children, and at 16 years of age he left Eastern Kentucky for Dayton, Ohio with his lifelong friend and extra-brother John Knox. In 1958 Thomas was drafted into the Army, where he served with distinction in Hawaii and was present when Hawaii became our 50th state. Thomas had a fierce work ethic and was a magician with his hands, able to build or fix anything. In the late 1970s, he started his own plumbing and heating business (Gardner Plumbing and Heating) that was a source of great pride and joy. He retired the business after 28 years, although he never retired from the work. He would selflessly help family, neighbors, and friends with any work project they needed. Thomas had been a member of the Knollwood Masonic Lodge. He is survived by the love of his life, Bonnie (nee Grutsch). Theirs was a love story that lasted more than 60 years. His children, Christopher (Sandy), Lisa Kelley (Steve), and Emily McCann (Steve). Grandchildren Megan and Zoe Kelley, Dalton Throckmorton, Michael and Greyson McCann. A Gathering of Friends and Family will be held from 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. on Friday, June 21 at the Tobias Funeral Home - Beavercreek Chapel with a Celebration of Life at 11:30 a.m. Interment will follow at Mt Zion Park Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Lupus Foundation of America.