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Thomas Kelley Obituary
MRT Correspondent
The Rev. Thomas Kelley, described by his peers as a "Priest's priest" with a "jovial, generous spirit," advocate for the poor and a voice for the people of the south and east sides of Midland, died Monday evening in a local hospital after a three-year battle with cancer. He was 62.
Kelley came to Midland eight years ago from the diocese of Erie, Penn. He found himself attracted to West Texas after having visited a friend and former seminarian. He became so taken with the people on the south and east sides, he learned to speak Spanish so he could celebrate the Mass with his largely Hispanic congregation.
A gifted homilist, Kelley spoke to the hearts of young and old alike, and his parish grew in numbers in the years he served, almost doubling, according to another Midland priest, within months after he began his service. He was also responsible for the re-establishment of the diaconate program in the diocese of San Angelo where in the last year, 30 deacon candidates were ordained, a substantial number given the current priest shortage throughout the church.
Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Kelley
124 Entries
August 17, 2018
WHY ?
In The Arms Of The Angels
June 15, 2017
Donna Luna-Hernandez
April 19, 2016
Oh, how we still miss you Fr. Tom. We think of you and pray for you often. Rest in peace.
Dale English
December 4, 2009
Fr. Kelley had become my legal guardian while I was as Saint Mark's Seminary in the 70-80's. I will always be grateful for that since my parents has passed away. He was also my spiritual directer at Seminary. His influence on my life will be everlasting, even though I have become Eastern Orthodox. I try to remember him in my daily prayers. I know he ment as much or more to the other seminarians at Saint Marks while he was there. Dale English (1977-1982)
Virginia Ramos
April 7, 2008
As these three years have passed i find myself needing Fr. Tom more and more i have needed his guidence and wise advice and i notice i often find myself comparing everyone else's outlook with what i think Fr. Tom would have said to me. i miss him so much.
Frank Dowling
March 18, 2008
Frank Dowling, St. Marks Seminary Class of 1974. What a time, what a place, to be alive with all that was going on, with all that was moving and alive. Knowing you, talking with you, putting it all in perspective - your counseling was fundamental to how I would proceed with the rest of my life. You put it in perspective so well, so clear and concise. You were a breath of fresh air and exemplified the concept of what it meant to be the "salt of the earth". Even though I doubt you knew it, your talks with me have been a central inspiration for my life's decisions. When the full circle comes around and you return to the places you think you knew, don't be surprised if it's changed. Damn it Tom! you're gone and
I'm sorry I missed the rest of your life (and that you missed mine), but you had a very positive effect, your time was not wasted. Thank you for spending some of it with me. Sincerely, Frank Dowling
Dn. Mike
January 26, 2008
We are getting closer to your dream, Fr. Tom. Your plans for a new church, your actual plans, are now being completed at the architect. Please pray for us!!!
David Duarte
April 9, 2007
Fr. Tom was a great blessing to us all.
May he be in Heaven with our Lord and may all the souls of the faithul departed through the mercy of God rest in peace. Amen.
Dn. Mike LaMonica
March 26, 2007
Dearest Fr. Tom,
You must be praying for us because it looks like your dreams are coming true. The Southside is blooming like a rose in the desert. Your paintings of a new Church are inspiring people to give and before long, we will have that new Church. Your concern for the people of this area has taken root and a new library in your name will soon be built. I cannot tell you how much I miss you. Please give my mom and dad a hug for me. You will recognize them for you all have the same loving heart...
Angela Banaszak
March 25, 2007
Dear Father Tom,
You had such a mark on everyone you touched, you will be sadly missed.
Richard (Jazz) Jazwinski
March 25, 2007
I was doing google searches to set up a 50 year highschool class re-union .. St. Mark's Seminary High School - Class of 1960 I am so sad - (words really cannot express this)- to see the picture of "Kelley" in an obituary ... I need to cry .....
Luz Reyes
January 13, 2007
Beloved Fr. Tom, Another birthday went by, You and Elvis.. I wonder if you like him better now!!
I remember when I went to Graceland and you asked "WHY?" I miss you always and look forward to the time when I will see you and hug you again, until then, drop by sometime will you?
syv mao
July 24, 2006
good day
Greg DiPasquale
May 29, 2006
I am overwhelmed with grief as I just learned of Fr. Kelley's death. I knew Fr. Kelley from my high school years at St. Mark's Seminary, until my graduation and its closing in 1983. I cherished my time with this great man and priest. I fondly remember his inspirational reflections as my spritual adviser and his generosity as he took those of us who spent the weekends at St. Mark's for pizza on Sat. nights. Words cannot describe the loss I feel even though we had lost touch over the years. But, I never forgot him, which led me to search for him on the internet. I regret I will not be able to visit him as I had so dearly hoped. I will miss you my friend,(and I remember what your middle initial C. stands for
Michael Welch
April 22, 2006
Father Kelley and I came to Rome together in 1985. I was a new student and he returned to his beloved alma mater, the Pontifical North American College. He was a seminarian's priest and he was one who was trusted. He was our dean of students and we all saw in him a man that struggled in real life to be a good priest. That was what attracted us to him. He knew the priesthood in our times is a tough calling and he reaffirmed it every day. He was never petty and always saw the bright lining in all things. He was a true Roman in that he encouraged us to open our eyes and ears and to see the ordinary lives of the people of the Eternal City. I have a picture of him and me meeting Pope John Paul II during an audience. The sparkle in Father Tom's eyes was amazing when he met the Holy Father. He knew that to live in Rome and so near Peter was the chance and opportunity of a lifetime. And how we laughed and cried and how we experienced the profound during those years. Ad Multos Annos. Rest in Peace.
November 22, 2005
Fr.Tom you have always held a special place in my heart and still continue to do so after your loss. I pray that you were there to recieve my grandma with open arms since you were her "gordo". I know and feel better every day knowing that i have two wonderful beautiful people up there to watch over me and my two children. always loving and missing you.
RICKY PINA
April 15, 2005
FATHER TOM,
I MISS YOU SO SO MUCH. YOUR WERE SUCH A GOOD FRIEND BUT BESIDES THAT A GREAT LEADER. BUT MOSTLY YOU WERE A PERSON WHO I LOOKED UP TOO. I JUST REMEMBER EVERYTIME YOU SAW ME YOU SAID "HI MY KIDDO" PADRE THOMAS I LOVE YOU AND MISS YOU SO MUCH AND I KNOW THE REST OF MY CONFIRMATION CLASS OF 2005 ALSO MISSES YOU GREATLY. BUT I JUST THINK THAT SOMEDAY WHO KNOWS WHEN I WILL BE UO THERE WITH IN KINGDOM.
OUR LADY OF SAN JUAN
CONFIRMATION CLASS OF 2005!!
Ed Kolo
March 31, 2005
As a graduate of St. Mark's in Erie, when I reflect on those formative years, one individual who had a tremendous influence on me was Fr. Tom. Over the course of four years, he was not only a priest figure, but teacher, confessor and friend to me. I had not spoken to Fr. Tom in years, but thought of him regularly. A wonderful servant of the Lord has returned to his maker. God Bless You Fr. Kelley.
Carrie Erdesky
March 29, 2005
Fr. Kelley. What can I say? I met you when I was only in grade school at St. Michael's in Greenville. You influenced me in more ways than you will ever know, especially in my faith journey. You touched my life as a priest, friend and mentor. I will never forget our times together, especially the trip with my brothers to the movies to see Sister Act II and then our trip to Pizza Hut. Thank you for your inspiring words and encouragement on becoming an altar server. Although my life has now taken me on a new faith journey, I will never forget your impact on my life. I look forward and anxiously await more great talks and good times with you in heaven. You were and are still a wonderful priest...lots of love from North Carolina to heaven. I will always be, as you always liked to put it, "your little girl".
Olivia Mendoza
March 23, 2005
Father Tom, We love you very much.
I always drew angels for you while I listened to your homilies, I miss your Hugs.
Jazmin and I think you looked very handsome in your pink and in your red vestments, but really, we just loved you all the time in the white one! I know you are happy in heaven
And we will hug you again someday but we miss you, and love you forever.
John Meier
March 21, 2005
Tom was a great classmate, a great priest and mentor, and a great example to us all in his Christian ministry and his Christian death.
Marie
March 19, 2005
Beloved fr. Thomas,
I miss you so much!
I thought about you on St. Patrick's day, you are the most Awesome Irishman I ever knew!
Hope you had a great celebration in heaven. You are in my heart forever
Until we meet again.
Marie
Jim Owen
March 19, 2005
A long time ago in 1961 Tom was our head prefect at St. mark's seminary. Those days are still fond memories. All of us in his class can remember the elections for president of the Mission club. We made a big deal out of it with political demonstrations in the gym using placards and all. The campaign went on for at least a week. Mike Barletta was the class artist and made all of the candidates posters that hung in the hallways. In our class play that year Tom played the part of a Roman Senator, toga and all. We used a lot of Latin jokes in the script. One of Tom's lines was "May I have a Martinus please?" to which the bartender Dave "Dubs" Dobrowolski replied "you mean a Martini don't you?" Tom's punch line --- "if I wanted more than one I would have asked for them." We used to play football behind St. Mark's where the retirement appartments for the priests now stands. Ron Metz and I tackled Mike Barletta and Mike broke his leg. Whenever Barletta was asked in Tom Kelley's presence how he broke his leg Tom would always tell them Barletta never broke his leg, Ron Metz & Jim Owen broke Barletta's leg. A beautiful sense of humor, great seminarian, a wonderful priest. Pray for us Tom
The LORD is my STRENGTH and my song!! <><
March 18, 2005
I know it has almost been a month since his passing, but I finally had the strength to look at this web page. It's still hard to believe that he is gone, but it only reminds me that he will live on in our hearts forever. Thank you LORD for blessing us with such an AWESOME priest. We Love you and miss you Father Tom May you rest in peace. Thank you for being the best and never giving up.
Mark Dombrowski
March 11, 2005
Twenty years ago this month Fr. Kelley comforted my family and I when I was diagnosed with cancer. My outcome so far has been good through the grace of God. My daughter Kelly (she was named by design; not coincidence) was only 9 months old at the time and my wife and I struggled with the situation. Fr. Kelley prayed with us and even celebrated Easter mass in our dining room, since I was too ill to attend church. What a wonderful man. Fr. Kelley was my spiritual advisor in the Seminary and later married my wife and I and baptized his namesake. Like all, I wish we could have kept him in Erie. He was our blessing, Midland's blessing and now deserves eternal rest and happiness.
Harold Patterson
March 10, 2005
Midland was indeed fortunate to have had the humanitarian contributions of Father Tom Kelley.
May he rest in peace.
Dan & Debbie Giardina
March 8, 2005
Fr. Kelley Your love has touched the hearts of many, and lives on in our hearts. You were Jesus to many! We thank God for you.
Mary Jo Lipani
March 8, 2005
I was fortunate to work with Fr. Tom at Saint Michael Parish. I will always remember his wonderful homilies and parish retreats and his support of myself as the school principal. Our weekly staff meetings and special staff outings were always reflective of the warmth and loving care that Fr. Tom had for everyone. We loved him very much and he will be greatly missed by my own family and our parish family as well. My prayers are with his family and his San Juan parishioners.
Vrginia Ramos
March 4, 2005
I DIDN'T THINK IT WAS GOING TO HIT ME AS HARD AS IT DID. I DON'T THINK ANYONE THOUGHT IT WAS GOING TO HIT THEM VERY HARD, UNTIL IT FINALLY HAPENED. IT HAD TO HAPPEN SOME TIME, EVEN THOUGH NO ONE WANTED IT TO HAPPEN NOW. SO, NOW WE HAVE TO PULL TOGETHER AND KEEP OUR PARISH GOING, WE CAN'T JUST GIVE UP, BECAUSE FR. TOM IS NO LONGER HERE PHYSICALLY BUT HE IS HERE SPIRITUALLY. THOUGH FR. TOM WILL BE MISSED GREATLY WE MUST LET HIM GO. BUT NEVER FORGET WHAT HE TAUGHT US.
Msgr. Andrew Karg
March 3, 2005
Fr. Tom always was a supportive priest whom I knew from North American Days. He was a gifted, creative priest who made our parish of St. Michael's more spiritually and liturgically at ease with Vatican II. His attractive personality made him comfortable wherever he went. We will miss him dearly. Msgr. Karg, Pastor, St. Michael, Greenville, Pennsylvania
Linda Reeh
March 1, 2005
May the angels welcome him to Paradise, & may there be one of his Deacon students waiting for him when he arrives. Dear, dear Father Kelley. You & Mark have become intercessors for those of us left behind. We prayed for you each liturgy of the hours for so long. We waited for the healing miracle, too. Now I am waiting to see you two again. Peace for all eternity.
Love, Linda Reeh
Diana Vela
March 1, 2005
I was in attendance on the last weekend Father Tom precided over mass. I was in town visiting my sister, Tina who is a parishoner of his church. I cannot say how much I enjoyed his service and how watching him and knowing the struggle and pain he must have been in how inspired I was. My sister spoke highly of him and often mentioned how much she enjoyed going to church again. Father Tom greatly affected in such a positive way those around him and he will truly be missed. May he rest in eternal peace with our Lord, Jesus Christ.
Isabel Rey
March 1, 2005
We knew Father Tom's last two years were very painful but somehow he'd get up and keep going. We believe he could do this because he had a mission to complete...to show us the meaning of service. And, serve he did!
One of the last times this summer that he came to see my aunt, Agustina Valenzuela, who is homebound, they chatted and she reminded him she could still sell Jamaica tickets for the church. He laughed and told her that her duty was done and now it was the job of the other abled bodied people at San Juan.
Before he left she gave him one of the last afghans she has made. He received it with such love. On behalf of Agustina, Victoria Diaz and all our family we wish you
Fr. Tomas and your family... PEACE.
Jessica Gonzales
February 28, 2005
My son and I loved Father Tom more than words can say. He made everyone feel like he had known them forever. He knew no strangers. My son Jacob was honored to have alter served during Mass with Father. We know he is watching over us. We will always love you Father Tom.
Reverend Donald King
February 27, 2005
I remember fondly Tom from vocation director days and from serving with him in Rome. He was a man of warmth and care, with a quick easy smile and a spirit of joy. He will be missed.
Andrea Longoria
February 26, 2005
You will not be forgetten. You brought great spirt to the youth group and I pray that it continues not only for you but the youth. No priest was abled to bring the kind of inspiration to the youth like Rev. Tom. we love you and happy that you have now been healed.
Kevin Major
February 26, 2005
Fr. Kelly baptised me almost 35 years ago in Erie. We were saddened to see him leave the area, but hearing of his successes in TX, I'm glad the Lord lead him to a place where he was happy and needed. God bless him and care for him. Vaya con Dios.
Rodney Spiwak
February 25, 2005
FATHER TOM KELLY I KNOW YOU NOW HAVE THE PEACE ONLY OUR LORD JESUS CAN ONLY PROVIDE TO YOU..I MISSED SEEING YOU STANDING AT THE ALTER ALREADY. IT IS GOING TO BE VERY HARD TO FILL YOUR SHOES FOR SURE..
IT WAS SOME SORT OF A MIRICLE HOW YOU KNEW EVERONES NAME WHEN YOU GAVE OUT THE HOST JESUS..THANKS FOR HELPING ME PRAY FOR BENEFICIAL RAIN,
HOPEFULLY I WILL SEE YOU LATER.
LOVED HELPING YOU INTO CHURCH THAT SATURDAY..WATCH OVER ME PLEASE
NOW THAT YOU ARE A ANGEL.....
Sal,Mary,Jessica,Sal Jr., Alex, Michelle Galvan
February 25, 2005
Father Kelley you will be missed greatly by all that shared in your life.
We pray that all of us who shared part of your walk with our LORD continue our own individual walk.
GOD Bless you and recieve you with open arms.
Thelma Norton
February 25, 2005
Father Tom was a very good man. When my Dad was in the hospital with cancer, Father Tom came and gave him the last rites. He talked to my Dad and called him by name. He prayed for my family and comforted us with his kindness. He WAS a good and faithful servant.
Patricia Starkebaum
February 25, 2005
Prayers on Psalm 91
Ted Penn
February 25, 2005
I am sorry to see Fr. Tom go, and not be able to talk or chat with him anymore. He was the spiritual director for my cursillo group held there in his parish in June 1997, and I am proud to have known him. His devotion was sincere, and his loss will be felt by many. At least now his physical pain is over, and I pray that I have one more interecessor in Heaven tonight.
Deacon Mike LaMonica
February 25, 2005
Laughter and tears. That is what Fr. Tom brought to me in all my encounters with him. Intense, impetuous, passionate, loving, bold, joyful, caring, and a perfectionist. He expected perfection in himself and because he expected it in me, he forced me to be better than I believed I could be. However, he was so forgiving and loving whenever my weaknesses and imperfections rose to the surface. He worked so hard for all he served…and he served all…I am still in shock because I could never believe he would ever leave. Yet I am so happy for him, for he can now rest in eternal peace…Rest my pastor, my brother, my friend…
magallanes family
February 25, 2005
IT IS NOT A TIME FOR SORROW, BUT A TIME YO CELEBRATE FATHER TOM'S HOMECOMEING. HE IS NOW IN A BETTER PLACE. HOW NEAT IT IS TO KNOW THAT HE IS AT OUR SAVIORS FEET.
NO ES EL TIMEPO DE LLORAR SI NO DE CELEBRAR LA BIEN VENIDA DE PADRE TOM A LA CASA DE DIOS. QUE BUENO ES SABER QUE EL ESTA A LOS PIES DEL SENIOR.
Adrian Ramirez
February 25, 2005
Today we say farewell to our Father Tom, but it is only a temporary goodbye. We will see him in Heaven. We have been blessed in having him here with us and he will be very missed. For all the good things that I can write of him I think the best quality he inspired me was to Love. We Love You Father Thomas.
Fernando Ortiz
February 25, 2005
I remeber father Tom as a new type of Father... one that took initiative and got things done... he helped many people and paid special attention to the youth incuding myself... i was sad when i heard of his passing, he will be in my prayers... thank you for all your hard work, God bless you Father Tom.
romero family
February 25, 2005
we were blessed to get to know father TOM may good bless his family and friends. We will always keep him in our paryers.
amber hirth
February 25, 2005
I was very young, but I remember him very well. He was a kind and very sweet man, I know he is now in a better place....
He will be missed.
Christine Morealli
February 25, 2005
What an inspirational, spiritual man. I knew Fr. Tom when he was in Erie Pa. at Our Lady of Mercy and my family always loved him. He will be greatly missed.
Sergio Garcia
February 25, 2005
Father Kelly, all you church members will dearly miss you.
Thank you for your blessing and for being there when we most needed you.God bless
Sergio B.Garcia and family
Tina Butler
February 24, 2005
Father Tom was an incredible and awesome spiritual leader. For the short amount of time I knew him, he inspired me to be a better Catholic, a better person, and a better wife and mother. I can only hope I pass on to my family and those around me what he so graciously gave to all of us.
I wish I had met you earlier. You will be deeply missed by many.
Carol & Mike Timon
February 24, 2005
Our prayers are with his family and all of those who have had is presence these past years. We knew Fr. Tom, when he was at St. Peter Carhedral in Erie, many years ago. God bless all who knew him.
Mario Aguirre
February 24, 2005
Adios Fr. Tom – my wife and I will miss you very much. We moved away from Midland long ago but the impression that you made on us will last a life time. As my little brother writes, “From now until we meet again...we will remember you”.
Horacio Vela OFS
February 24, 2005
May the Lord have him in his grace
and eternal life be his reward. He turned many to the Lord and by his
humble example he protrayed the gospel life. He will be missed, but by the seeds of Christ he sowed he will forever be remembered by all. With great love the Vela Family from McAllen.
nicholas monroe
February 24, 2005
Truley inspired my life.
Tom Smith
February 24, 2005
Dear Margaret Mary, Sue and Family:
When I heard of Tom's death last night, my heart broke...my thoughts go back to your home in Titusville, together in the minor seminary, Ordination in Rome (I have quite a few pictures of that event, if someone wants them, email me and I will send them) and all the memories over the years as a brother in Christ...time and place has separated us, but together in love forever...
Cindy Velez
February 24, 2005
Father Kelley you were always kind to me each time we had the blessing of being together. I know God heard our prayers for you when He called you home. May God bless your family and your parish family through this sad time. I will always remember your example of justice, faith, courage, and integrity. God Bless, Cindy
Jill Jackson
February 24, 2005
Losing Father Tom is a great tragic but all things happen for a reason and only good things will come for him and for all. We have not lost a soul, but only gained an angel. He is in a better place with the ones he cared for and worshiped. My prayers go out to the family of this wonderful and inspirational follower of the Lord. Father Tom will be truely missed by everyone. May he rest in peace and God bless him.
Helen Heher, OSB
February 24, 2005
Joan Heher, Tom's Aunt, and I, Tom's cousin, are sitting here in Erie, PA wishing we could be in Midland for his last good-bye. We are grateful for the love and the outpouring of kindness that he has and is experiencing from his dear parishioners. Mom and I compared notes the day after Tom's death and both of us were flooded with memories of him as a young boy at the family's cottage at President, PA. In those hills,he worked out the details of his decision to go early to the seminary; and while the relatives discussed it, he and I would walk up the Allegheny River and talk about important things, spiritual things. We are so very happy that he is now at peace and we are ever soo aware of Sue and Ken and Mary and BD and their families. We carry them in our hearts and pray that they come through this all. We think of Aunt Deanna, Tom's Mother, who soo love him and how ecstatic she must be to be reunited with him. Uncle Spicer, his Father, must be soo relieved. We know you are very close and right here around us, Tom, and we'll be grateful during your liturgy tomorrow for the wondrous life you've led for others and for us. May the Angels take you into Paradise... Helen Heher, OSB
Nancy Fischer, SSJ
February 24, 2005
I was honored to be a part of Father Tom Kelley's ministry as we planned for small christian communities at St. Michael's Church in Greenville. He has been missed in the diocese of Erie and I am sure will be missed by the people of Midland. May God give him the peace he has rightfully earned.
veronica/sergio cedillo
February 24, 2005
We Love and will miss you.
Br. Andy Lawlor OMI
February 24, 2005
When I was at Our Lady of Guadalupe in Midland in 1999 Fr. Tom was my spirituly director. Fr. Tom help me to see Gods love in ever person I meet and I feel that is how Father saw everyone. I will always thank God for the time I spent with him.May all the saints meet him and take him with them. Br. Andy OMI
Fr. Jed Patrick
February 24, 2005
I was a classmate and dear friend of Fr. Tom's during our theology formation in Rome. I have such wonderful memories of those years together and deeply regret that we had lost contact with each other for many years. What a profound blessing he was to the people of Midland! I join his family, friends and parishioners in mourning his loss and rejoice with them for the great gift of God he was to so many of us. May God embrace you in his everlasting life and love, dear Tom!
Donna Luna Hernandez
February 24, 2005
Fr. Tom was such an inspiration to me. The Lord truly blessed us all with someone so wonderful, so caring, loving and compassionate. He struggled with his illness, because he had such BIG dreams. I believe Fr. Tom felt his job here on earth was not finished, however, our good Lord who knows all knew that he had served his people and community beyond expectations. He called him home to rest. I will miss him dearly. My heart and love go out to his family. Thank you Fr. Tom for saying YES and for being such a wonderful Christian example. Thank you God!
Adolfo Hernandez
February 24, 2005
There are many great things I treasure and keep in my heart to remember the love and guidance Fr. Tom gave each one of us. I will never forget the last mass he celebrated with us - he gave every ounce of strength he had left to finish. A faithful servant - an example he called all of us to be, a servant that served to the end. We will miss you! Our prayers are with his family.
Bro. Ricky Lopez
February 24, 2005
Padre Kelley,
I just found out, and it hurts. You were my spiritual father, and you were loved. Thank you for your inspiration and your love. May you be with your beloved mom and dad, and keep shining that bright smile down on us forevermore.
Tim & Lori Repman
February 24, 2005
Father Tom will always be part of family. He was there for us when my Dad died. We will always remember the funeral mass he celebrated for him. Father Tom has now joined my Dad. May God bless his family and parish.
Danielle Borrego
February 24, 2005
Rev. Kelley will be greatly missed!
Jesse, Hortencia, Ryan, & Crystal Carrasco
February 24, 2005
Beloved Father Tom,
We know God will welcome you into his kingdom, for we all know how much he loved you. You were a great inspiration for us. You made us greater followers of the Christ and made us believe how important it is be active in our community. With a firm & compassionate hand you made our church grow in Christ.
Father Tom, we love you and miss you dearly, already.
Alicia Villanueva
February 24, 2005
Fr. Tom Kelley is now Home. He ran a good race and now he is being rewarded for serving God's people and the community of "Our Lady of San Juan. His last days of service was full of pain and it hurt our church to see the suffering he undertook. He was loved by his people and he fought to bring us to a new spiritual level. He was there for me and my family as we endured a great loss and He was there when his community needed him. He is now with Our Lord. We now have a great intercessor. My family and I will miss him as well as the entire community. He touched the lives of many.
Well done! Faithful servant of God.
Until we see you again, The Montes Family.
Armando Bautista
February 24, 2005
Father Thomas Kelly
You will be missed by everyone.
God Bless you at least you will be with the Lord, your in good hands.
In behave of my mom Lupe Bautista and all her children,we will miss you forever.
We know you will be looking down and taking care of us.
GOD BLESS YOU FATHER
Helen Arrieta
February 24, 2005
I will always have a great place in my heart for Father Tom, he baptized my baby girl who is now a year old and I did my confirmation with him that I will always cherish. He was our Father and our friend and we loved him very much. Now Jesus has called him to be with him and he is in a better place where he is our angel and now watching down on us. We love you Father Tom and we will never forget you we will meet with you again someday. Eric, Helen and Erica Arrieta
Sr Rose Kuzma
February 24, 2005
Our prayers are with all of you!
Sr Rose Kuzma and all the School Sisters of St Francis in Pittsburgh
Susie Locker
February 24, 2005
Whenever our family would come to visit my Dad in Midland, we would go to Mass at San Juan and be filled by Father Kelley's reverent and Spirit-filled celebration. You could sense the love that he had for his parish, and that his parishioners loved him very deeply too. This love will not be interrupted by his death. Faith and hope are no longer needed when you get to heaven, because you're there! But heaven is full of love! Father Kelley will keep loving San Juan Parish from heaven for eternity. Thank you Father Kelley! We love you too!
Fr. Tom Aleksa
February 24, 2005
Dear Maggie & Sue & family,
Tom was a great blessing to all and a friend for life. You have been through so much sorrow in the past couple of years and Tom was an inspiration during his own time of illness. The world and the Church are better because of his service and dedication. May he rest in God's peace and may you know that I am always with you in Spirit and love.
Dora Longoria
February 24, 2005
You will forget your misery; you will remember it as waters that have passed away. And your life will be brighter than the noonday; its darkness will be like the morning. And you will have confidence because there is hope.
Our sorrows will diminish and soon pass because we have the knowledge of brighter days ahead. Fr. Tom taught us to look toward brighter days and instilled a confidence in each and everyone of his parishioners, that there is hope in the Lord above. He was a beacon of light and love for us all and that love was brighter than the noonday. Fr. Tom we prayed for a miracle, that Our Lord would bring complete healing of mind, body and soul. He has answered our prayer and released you from your pain and now you will continue to guide your sheep from heaven above. Thank you so much for your love and sacrifice. We love you and will miss you. Joe, Dora, Andrea and Adriana.
Mary
February 24, 2005
I was blessed to come to know Father Kelley as one of his nurses during his treatment. He was a gentle, compassionate, intelligent man who faced his illness with great courage. He will be terribly missed by all who knew him. Thank you, Jesus, for sending him amongst us.
Steve Mueller Family
February 24, 2005
Our rosary & Mass intentions are being offered for Fr. Tom and his survivors at Our Lady of San Juan. We'll miss his warm smile and kind words until the day we're all hopefully re-united with our heavenly family. Oremus
Fernando De La Rosa
February 24, 2005
Padre Tomas:
Cumpliste tu cometido en esta vida estoy seguro que Dios Nuestro Señor tiene reservado un lugar muy especial para ti. Tu trabajo y devoción para con tus semejantes serán recordados siempre.
Descansa en Paz
Jackie Wilkes
February 24, 2005
Several years ago I was at a supper at Our Lady of San Juan. It was the first time I had tried eating Manuto (sp?). Father Tom came buy and said Oh, I see you like Manuto! I said it was my first time. He asked do you like it! I said it was interesting, the flavor was good but there were a lot of strange things in it. He laughed and said get something else to eat you don't have to eat that stuff. He was so warm to me!
Jackie Wilkes parishioner St Stephens
Gerardo & Debbie Jimenez
February 24, 2005
The Lord truely blessed our family with a friend like Father Kelley. He brought alot of joy and laughter into the Herrera family. You will greatly be missed by many. We love you so much. Rest in peace Father Kelley.
Jazmin Mendoza
February 24, 2005
Father,
Not my dad,
My priest.
Father Tom was my priest, he baptized me, gave me my first communion, and every sunday gave us the most wonderful homilies. And Fr. Tom gave the BEST HUGS!
Listening to father was like hearing God, Father Tom loved us and we loved him right back!
We will miss you and love you forever fr. Tom.
We will hug you again in heaven someday.
Jazmin and Olivia
Luz Reyes
February 24, 2005
Beloved Fr. Tom, beloved Priest.
You didn't stay long enough, you know? Every Sunday, your homilies were pure love, pure Jesus, You were our shining star. We will see each other again, someday, until then, Thank you for being the most beautiful human being I ever had the honor of meeting.
Vaya con Dios.
Love you forever.
Luz
Irma Sanchez
February 24, 2005
Father Tom you will be greatly missed by all the people that you touched. Thank you for being there for me when I needed someone to talk to and for sharing my pain. My family loves you and we will miss you. I know that you are no longer suffering and that you are with Jesus and Mary Keep watching over all of use and keep smiling that pretty smile of yours I will miss you. Erby Irma Maria Veronica Anthony and April Sanchez
Mike & George & Olga Duarte Family
February 23, 2005
Father Tom Kelly, was a very powerful leader in our parish. His persaverance to continue serving our parish was very admirable. We will always love him because his memory will always live in our hearts forever. He is home now with our father in Heaven.
Rachel DelaCerda
February 23, 2005
My deepest and sincere condolences to his family. Thank you for sharing him with us, he was the best of friends, and spiritual directors and know that he touched us all with his Love forever. His laughter, guidance and friendship will be missed and will remain until we can say "make room for me Padre" Thank you for all the wonderful memories and my best to St. Francis and St. Clare and of course you know who. Love you r
J. Aguirre
February 23, 2005
Dwell not upon the suffering, this man of God has known
Look past the pain that clouds your eyes, and aches you to the bone
Think of times of cheer instead, for surely you must know
The hand of God has swept him up, an angel has gone home.
From now until we meet again...we will remember you.
The Aguirre Family
Tony &Sally Lopez
February 23, 2005
our prayers our with you.
Deacon Flabio and Priscilla Franco
February 23, 2005
How wonderful it was to have met Fr. Kelley. We were truly blessed with his presence, for his love of the Lord gave great strength to those around him. His leadership to the diocanate program filled us with the essence of love, brotherhood and energy. The laughter and tears shared on those weekends will forever be cherished. Your spirit and passion will never be forgotten!
Deacon Fly and Priscilla Franco
Dcn. Mike Medina
February 23, 2005
Fr. Tom Kelley was no doubt a great Shepherd. He is now at the mountain top. He is glorifing the Cross. He ran a good race and now he is being rewarded for serving God's people and the community of "Our Lady of San Juan. His commitment can not be question. Not even the death of his parents was enough to keep him from serving his community first.It was always about others rather than himself. His last days of service was full of pain and it hurt me just to see the suffering he undertook just to make sure his people were fed the Word and the Body of Christ. He was loved by his flock and he fought to teach us and to bring us to a new spiritual level. He wanted his people to be proud of their customes and traditions. He wanted all of us to be proud of who we were.He was there for me when I too went through an ordeal. He was there when my family and I needed Him.He was there when his community needed him. He was a champion of justice. His involvement in community affairs was to bring justice for his people. He was a great fighter. He has graduated from the School of Suffering and is now with Our Lord. We now have a great intercessor. My family and I will miss him as will the entire community. He touched the lives of many. May God Bless his soul and our Blessed Mother Mary, has now taken his soul to her Son, Jesus.
Deacon Mike & Lady Ann Medina
Susan
February 23, 2005
What a blessing this man of God was to so many people. He LOVED being a priest and enjoyed sharing this love of our Lord and Savior with us all. What joy he is experiencing now as he joins his Maker in Heaven! I am glad for him. Our sorrow will come from the earthly loss we feel. Father Tom shared so much with so many. He especially loved children and teenagers and tried with all his heart and soul to do what was best for them and their futures. I feel blessed to have known him, shared thoughts and moments, and celebrated the sacraments with him. I loved Father Tom Kelley and look forward to seeing him again some day and I pray he keeps an eye on me from above.
Stephanie Fuller
February 23, 2005
In little over a year Midland has aquired 2 angels to watch over us( Fr. Tom and Monsr. Murphy). They will never know how much they were loved and how much they will be missed. Midland was blessed to have known them. May God's love be with all who morn the passing of another wonderful man.
Mike & Lorena Gonzales
February 23, 2005
Father Tom made a difference in our lives. He was a faithful and dedicated servant to the Lord and helped us all in living a better Christian life. Our family will forever be thankful that he lead us back to Our Lady of San Juan. He made you feel special and not only welcomed but you felt at home. He had a way of making you want to do more to serve the Lord. Father Tom was so much like the beautiful garden that he had made at the entrance to our church, because where ever he went there was a Blooming of Life, Love, Hope, Compassion, and above all Faith. We are so much the better for having known him and calling him our friend.
Vaya Con Dios Nuestro Amigo....
CHANTEL MARMOLEJO
February 23, 2005
MY FAMILY AND I WERE VERY TOUCHED BY FATHER TOM. THE ONE THING I THINK EVERYONE WILL MISS ABOUT OUR FATHER IS THE BIG HUGS WE GET AFTER EVERY MASS.I'LL MISS YOU ALOT WE LOVE YOU!!
Jesse Munoz
February 23, 2005
The magnitude of the priesthood is something I've always had the utmost respect for and so I always believed it was something very special when I met a priest willing to lay it all on the line in spite of the status quo. Father Tom was this special priest and more. He truly is a hero for the poor and was a pious servant of God, a role model for many. I will miss him dearly, as will his beloved church. Godspeed on your journey home, Father.
ezequiel murillo
February 23, 2005
will miss you
kelley dixon
February 23, 2005
Reading all of these entries reminds me of what a wonderful person my uncle was. In a time of great sorrow for our family these entries will let us remember how special he was to everyone who knew him. Thank you for the kind thoughts and words. We'll miss you dearly!
Diana Herrera Urias
February 23, 2005
Fr. Kelley has been a long time cherished member of our family. The holidays will never be the same without you. Thank you for your inspiration and love. I thank God that he gave us YOU! We love you! The Urias Bunch
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