Thomas L Kelley

Thomas "Tom" Kelley, 35, of Oswego, Illinois, unexpectedly passed away on July 11, 2026, leaving behind a family and community who loved him deeply. Tom was born on March 6, 1991, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. As a child, he moved to Illinois, the place he proudly called home for the rest of his life. He graduated from Neuqua Valley High School with the Class of 2009 before earning his degree in Criminal Justice from Westwood College.

In 2009, Tom met the love of his life, Allie. What began as a high school romance quickly became a lifelong partnership. They were inseparable from the very beginning, growing upside by side and building a beautiful life together. They were married on March 17, 2012, and together shared 17 unforgettable years filled with love, laughter, adventures, and unwavering support. Together they welcomed their two greatest joys, their daughters, Rylee and Reese.

On October 28, 2016, Tom graduated from the Illinois Department of Corrections Training Academy and began the career he was truly meant for as a Correctional Officer at Stateville Correctional Center. For nearly 10 years, he proudly served alongside his fellow officers. To Tom, corrections was never just a job-it was a calling. His brothers and sisters behind those walls became family, and he was incredibly proud of the work he did every day. He had recently been preparing for the next step in his career, working toward becoming a Sergeant, something he had earned through years of dedication and hard work.

To those who didn't know him well, Tom could seem quiet and reserved. But to those fortunate enough to know him, he was funny, outspoken, incredibly loyal, and one of the most caring people you could ever meet. He had a dry sense of humor, a kind heart, and a way of making the people he loved feel safe and supported.

Tom found joy in the simple things. He loved hiking, building LEGO sets, playing video games and board games with his family, attending concerts, and traveling whenever he had the chance. Whether it was a long vacation or a spontaneous road trip, he loved making memories with the people he loved.

More than anything else, Tom loved his family. Everything he did was for them. He worked tirelessly to make sure they were cared for, supported, and able to enjoy a wonderful life together. He was a devoted husband, an incredible father, and the steady foundation of his family. His love, quiet strength, and selflessness will continue to be felt every day by those fortunate enough to have known him.

Tom is survived by his loving wife of 14 years and partner of 17 years, Allie Anderson; his cherished daughters, Rylee Kelley and Reese Kelley; his father, Leo (Deb) Kelley Jr.; his mother, Lisa Brennan; his mother-in-law, Kati Soland; his sister, Amanda (Mike) Hall; his grandmother, Elaine Kelley; his grandmother, Joan Kustan; and countless extended family members, lifelong friends, and his brothers and sisters at Stateville Correctional Center.

Tom's life was far too short, but the impact he made on those around him will never fade. He will be remembered for his unwavering love for his family, his loyalty to his friends and fellow officers, his quiet strength, his generous heart, and the countless memories he created with those he loved. Though his family wished for many more decades together, they will forever cherish the beautiful years they were blessed to share with him.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Kelley family to assist with funeral expenses and to support Allie, Rylee, and Reese during this unimaginable time. https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-for-tom-kelleys-family-after-his-passing

A Celebration of Life will be held for Tom on Monday, July 20, 2026, from 1:00 P.M. until time of Eulogy 5:30 P.M. at DUNN FAMILY FUNERAL HOME with CREMATORY 1801 S. Douglas Road Oswego, IL 60543. For information, 630-554-3888 or visit his memorial page at www.dunnfamilyfuneralhome.com