Thomas Christopher Kelly

Born in Boston, Massachusetts, he was the beloved son of Catherine A. (Nolan) Kelly.

Tom dedicated many years of his career to the nuclear power industry, working in Radiation Protection before retiring from Pilgrim Nuclear Power Station. It was through that work that he formed countless friendships that became lifelong family. Whether at work or in everyday life, Tom had a remarkable ability to make people feel welcome, valued, and loved.

To know Tom was to know someone who loved loudly. He never met a stranger, showed up without being asked, and had a way of making everyone feel like they belonged. He was endlessly generous with his time, his home, and his heart. Children naturally gravitated to him because he made them feel important, and if he loved you, there was a good chance he had a nickname for you—and a story he’d happily tell to anyone within earshot.

Tom found joy in life’s simple pleasures: tending to his vegetable garden, listening to The Beatles, gathering with family and friends, and hosting unforgettable backyard cookouts, lobster boils, and celebrations that often lasted long into the night. His home was a place where laughter was constant, music filled the air, and everyone was welcome. He had a rare gift for turning ordinary days into unforgettable memories.

Above all else, Tom treasured spending time with what he affectionately called “his kids”—his nieces, nephews, cousins, and the many friends who became family. His greatest happiness came from simply being surrounded by the people he loved.

In addition to his mother, Catherine A. (Nolan) Kelly, Tom is survived by his brother, Robert Kane of Mobile, Alabama; his nephew, Billy Cambensy and his wife, Jacquelin, of Oceanside, California; his nieces, Gina Becker and her husband, Matt, of Santa Clarita, California, and Melissa Mitrou of Santa Clarita, California. He also leaves behind many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and countless dear friends whose lives were forever enriched by knowing him. Among those he considered family were Bryan and Angie Clow of Sandwich, Massachusetts; John and Jane Norris of Zachary, Louisiana; and Ronnie and Kim Passalugo of Fishkill, New York.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 23, 2026, at Corpus Christi Parish, 324 Quaker Meetinghouse Road, East Sandwich, Massachusetts. Burial will follow at Sandwich Town Cemetery.

To anyone who can’t make the funeral - the church will have it live-streamed if you’d like to tune in. Use this link then click “livestream”.

https://www.corpuschristiparish.org

Family and friends are invited to continue celebrating Tom’s life following the burial with food, refreshments, and fellowship, at Naukabout brewing company - 13 Lake Ave

Mashpee, MA 02649 from 1-4pm.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to High Point Treatment Center in memory of Thomas Kelly to support individuals and families affected by addiction. The family also encourages everyone to honor Tom’s memory by opening your home, giving generously, making time for the people you love, and never missing an opportunity to remind someone how much they mean to you.

Arrangements are under the care of Nickerson-Bourne Funeral Home, 154 Route 6A, Sandwich, Massachusetts.