The son of the late Joseph Paul and Ellen Swede Kelly, Patrick was born on April 27, 1955, at Oak Knoll Naval Hospital in Oakland, California. He grew up in Aragona Village, where he played Little League baseball with the Aragona-Pembroke League and attended Princess Anne High School. In his youth, Patrick served as an altar boy at St. Gregory the Great Catholic Church.
In 1976, Patrick discovered his love for trucking. By 1981, he set out on the open road as a long-haul driver, working as an owner/operator with Lonestar/Ranger. In 1994, he was recognized for achieving one million safe driver miles. In 1998, Patrick joined Waterfront Marine Construction as a truck driver, later retiring in 2016 as Shop Manager to spend more time with his family.
Patrick’s many interests included gardening, astronomy, and car racing—especially short track and NASCAR. He also enjoyed visiting National Parks, with a special fondness for those in the western United States.
He is survived by his daughters, Crystal Kelly (Duane Worley) and Casey Perez (Mario); seven grandchildren, Dylan Worley (Ashley), Savannah Worley, Millinia Perez (Tristan Sellers), Naomi Perez, Hailey Kelly, Lili Perez, and Mason Perez; and three great-grandchildren, Scotland Worley, Zoey Close, and Maverick Worley. He is also survived by his sisters, Theresa Arterberry (Jay) and Denise Brown (Ken), as well as numerous nieces and a nephew.
In addition to his parents, Joseph and Ellen Kelly, Patrick was preceded in death by his brother Wayne and his special friend and former spouse, Laura Wesp.
A Gathering of Family and Friends for Patrick will be held on Friday, December 19, 2025 from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm, with a service to follow at 6:00 pm, at Rosewood Kellum Funeral Home, 601 N Witchduck Road, Virginia Beach, Virginia 23462. In memory of Patrick, the family requests guests wear flannel and jeans.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Lee’s Friends, 7400 Hampton Blvd #201, Norfolk, VA 23505. Phone: 757-440-7501. Online: Donate to Lee’s Friends | Support Cancer Patients & Families
