Thomas M. Kelsey

Thomas Miller Kelsey born November 8 1947, graduate of Upper Arlington High School (65), OSU graduate (70), 25 year heart transplant recipient, husband, father, grandfather, son, brother and uncle passed away Monday September 23, 2013. Tom was preceded in death by Parents James and Margaret Kelsey as well as sister Betsy and brother Johnny Kelsey. Tom and wife Penny “My Sweetie” Kelsey have three sons, Jamie Kelsey, Michael (Heather) Kelsey and Wesley Kelsey. In addition, Tom was also a proud Grandfather to Scott, Ellabelle, and Elin Kelsey and is also survived by sister Molly (Robert) Deverse, nieces Carrie (John) Schatz and Jessie Deverse.

On August 20th 1988, Tom received a second chance of life as a recipient of heart transplant done at The Ohio State University. After 25 + years as a transplant recipient Tom never forgot how blessed he was to have a second chance at life. Shortly after his transplant he was involved in the beginning stages of the Unverferth House, located on King Ave in Columbus Ohio. The Unverferth House is a safe place for family members of transplant recipients to stay free of charge while their loved ones recover. In addition to the Unverferth House, he was involved in several other local charities and groups.

Aside from his family, one of Tom’s other passions was to plan. Tom loved to travel and relished the opportunity to design an itinerary or party. Tom and Penny had the good fortune to travel to several parts of the world and experience life from various perspectives. After 43 years of marriage, Tom and Penny had a way of identifying with each other. They finished each other’s sentences, were rocks for each another during trying times, and best friends. Ultimately, they both knew that tomorrow was never a guarantee and lived their lives together while sharing it with others.

For those who knew Tom, you know that he was more than the words written above. Not only was he a son, a brother, a husband, a father and grandfather, he was a very good and kind person in and of himself.

As such, in lieu of flowers, the Kelsey’s are asking that you consider a donation to the Unverferth House or to a cause that is special to you.

You will be missed dearly Thomas Miller Kelsey, aka, Dad, Pop-Pop, Tin Man, Tommy. Please know that you have affected many in a truly positive and profound way that will continue on in this world. We are all so very thankful and proud to have been part of your incredible life.

We love you!!