Thomas Kelly Obituary
On Tuesday October 7, 2025, the legendary father of the Kelly family of Springfield, Virginia, Thomas Alfred Kelly, passed away in his suburban home of more than 50 years. He was surrounded by the love of his children, grandchildren and wife Adriann Bernadyne Maciejewski. Born in the Chicago suburb of Cicero to parents Thomas A. Kelly and Bluebell LeGris, Thomas Kelly would go on to live an abundant life following the Lord. He served his country, community, and family as a soldier, accountant, hockey coach, and dedicated husband, father, and grandfather. Humble, patient, hard working, with a subtle and ferocious wit he was charming, self sacrificing, and quietly went about doing what was right even when no one was looking. In an era dominated by loud personalities he was a throwback to a time when character mattered more than rhetoric. He raised five children born within six years. Doesn't that say it all? And yet, as a fly fisherman, front lawn perfector, quasi expert in World War II and Notre Dame football, poet, stand out athlete and student, teller of great stories, and piano savant, he was many things. He was a life long learner and continuously curious, a trait he has passed onto his children. Born on the heels of the Great Depression, enduring a childhood framed by the second World War and a tour of civil service in the Vietnam war, he was calmly resilient in the face of challenge after challenge, and supported by a deep sense of humor and unshakeable faith. He is survived by his sister Susie Pfau, his wife Adriann, five children and 12 grandchildren: son Matthew, son Ryan and his wife Janet and their children Reagan, Ashton, and Tobyn; son Peter and his wife Cristina and their children Alexandra, Cristian, Carolina, and Camila; son Timothy and his wife Erin and their children Jonah and Graham; and daughter Kathryn and her wife Suji and their children Caitlin, Meera, and Veronica. He improved everything around him. He was gentle and strong. He remains in those he quietly loved so well. Funeral services are being held at St. Bernadette's Church in Springfield, starting at 11 a.m. on Tuesday October 14.
Published by The Washington Post on Oct. 12, 2025.