Jim was born on August 14, 1951, in Winsted, CT to his parents, Graham and Kathleen “Kitty” Kelley, as the youngest of five children. He graduated from Regional High School in 1969, and being a true patriot, he joined the Army National Guard shortly thereafter. He held several jobs throughout his life, but his gift and natural talent was sales where he shined, a true charmer. He happily retired in 2017.
Jim is survived by his beautiful and loving wife, Linda Kelley; his only daughter and son-in-law, Tara and Andy Stevens; his grandson and buddy, Jakob Andrew Stevens; his wonderful brothers Peter and Clyde Kelley; his amazing sister and brother-in-law, Karen and Dana Stockwell; as well as fantastic "step" children and grandchildren, several feisty nieces and nephews and his loyal Lhasa Apso, Ali. He is preceded in death by his beloved parents and sister, Virginia “Ginny” Sejdak.
“Pop Kelley,” as he was affectionately called, enjoyed bike riding and going to the beach to use his metal detector to prospect for treasures. His house was his castle, and he spent countless hours grooming his yard to beautiful perfection. He was an affectionate and adoring husband, loving father, proud grandfather, devoted brother, warmhearted uncle, caring stepfather, beloved son, and a true sincere friend. He lived his life to the fullest, and brightened the lives of everyone he met.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Sylvan Abbey Funeral Home, 2853 Sunset Point Road, Clearwater, FL 33759. Visitation is on Thursday, April 26, 2018 from 12:00PM to 2:00PM, and Memorial Services from 2:00PM to 3:00PM.
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