Thomas Edgar Kelly of Northlake, Illinois passed away surrounded by loved ones on Saturday, March 4th, 2023 at the age of 74. Born on June 2nd, 1948 in Ansted, West Virginia to Ruby Wood and Theodore Kelly.
Thomas, also known as Tommy, was one of fifteen siblings. He is survived by his brothers Norman, James, and Dale; along with his sisters Aida, Norma, Cheryl, Pam, and Ruthie. Thomas is welcomed into the gates of God's Kingdom by his older brothers Theordore, Emory, Carl, and Larry; his youngest brother Charlie and his eldest sister Delma.
Thomas was a proud father of the late Debra K. Kelly (mother Vivian) and a loving husband to the late Barbara Polly. With whom he will now walk hand and hand with, forever watching over those he left behind.
Honorably and without hesitation, Thomas became a father to Suronda, James, Kimberly, Frank, Kenny and Al.
Anyone who had the pleasure of knowing Tommy called him 'Papa', a name given to him by his many grandchildren. Tommy will forever be known as World's Greatest Papa to Amanda (Questar), Jaime, Anthony, Nikki, Kevin, Brandon, Tony, Aimee, Kayla, Junior, Vivi, DJ; Megan and Michael; Brianna and Ashley.
He will also be missed by his many great grandchildren including Zaydel, Rylan, and Hayden who resided with their Papa over the past four years. Papa spent everyday helping with homework, teaching them the important things in life, and creating wonderful memories.
Thomas was many things: a good friend, a gardener, a jokester, and a lifelong Packer's fan. He brought laughter and joy everywhere he went. When he wasn't playing cards or listening to Elvis, he was fishing with friends and family.
Thomas was a welcoming soul and he will truly be missed. A visitation will be held on Wednesday March 8th, from 10 a.m to 1 p.m at The Northlake Funeral Home.
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