
Tom was a devoted father, lifelong entrepreneur, builder, and passionate supporter of the communities he loved. A general contractor by trade, he founded and operated several businesses throughout his life, including Tom Kelly Construction, Cycle Accessories, Garage Pros, K1 Electric, and Tom Kelly Flooring. He was known for his relentless work ethic, bold personality, generosity, and ability to bring ideas to life. Tom was instantly recognizable around Jacksonville for his trademark red t-shirt and overalls, along with his fleet of red-and-white Ford trucks. He was a familiar face across Jacksonville’s construction, racing, and martial arts communities for decades.
Tom was also a proud member of the Morocco Shriners, where he participated in motorcycle escort activities and was dedicated to the organization’s fellowship, service, and charitable mission. He had a deep love for motorcycles, racing, and motorsports culture. Over the years, Tom sponsored numerous race cars, dirt tracks, kickboxers, and martial artists, finding genuine joy in supporting people who were chasing a dream. When his daughter discovered a passion for karate and kickboxing, Tom did more than encourage her, he helped build something around that passion. Among his proudest contributions was helping create and sponsor Team Full Circle, which grew into one of the most respected kickboxing teams in the world. Through his support, many athletes were given opportunities to compete, grow, and become part of communities that shaped their lives.
Tom embodied extraordinary resilience throughout his life. He survived a near-fatal car accident and spinal fusion surgery, overcame cancer, and fought through many serious health challenges over the past decade with determination and strength.
Tom will be remembered for his ambition, loyalty, generosity, resilience, and the lasting impact he had on the many people whose lives he touched through business, sports, friendship, and mentorship.
He is survived by his daughter, Mia Kelly of Gainesville, Florida; his mother, Gladys Kelly of Jacksonville, Florida; his brother, Pat Kelly and his wife, Sandy, of Terra Alta, West Virginia, along with their daughter, Erin Kelly; his sister, Cheryl Kelly of Jacksonville, Florida; and his brother, Steve Kelly Sr. and his wife, Maria, of Jacksonville, Florida, along with their children, Steven Kelly Jr., Mary Branham, and Kristen Clark.
Funeral services will be held on May 31st at Hardage-Giddens Greenlawn Cemetery at 11:00 am.
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