Thobourne “Toby” Kelly went home to be with the Lord at Riverside Methodist Hospital in Columbus, Ohio on Saturday December 17th. 2011.
Toby was born in McComb, Ohio on November 3rd. 1926. He was the youngest son of Arba and Anna Kelly, and brother to Genevieve, Leland, and Serge.
Toby and the family moved here when he was 3 years old, settling in northern Marion County. The Great Depression ensued and times were tough, but so were the folks of that day. The Kelly’s were no different. Toby was influenced early on by the character and work ethic of his parents and his older siblings. He humbly carried those traits with him throughout his life.
When America entered World War II, all the Kelly boys entered into the U.S. Navy to serve their country. Toby became a Radioman 3rd Class and was assigned to the U.S.S. Julius A. Raven APD-110, a converted Destroyer that was used as a high speed transport vessel in the Atlantic theater. He was honorably discharged at the war’s end. He was always extremely proud to have served his country that he loved so much, but was quick to turn from any praise that he thought to be excessive. He always made it clear that the real heroes are ones who truly went above and beyond never had the pleasure of coming back home again.
Upon his return home, he began his training as an Apprentice Electrician. A quick study, he eventually partnered with his two brothers to form The Richwood Electric Company. The business thrived for many years, and was primarily known for doing high quality commercial construction. Many area shopping centers, bowling alleys, and other businesses big and small were wired by the boys from Richwood Electric. Toby’s talents were always in demand, and he went on to work with a number of other companies all over the state until his retirement in 1992. He was a proud member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, earning his pin for 63 years of membership and service. He attended as many IBEW meetings and get-togethers as he could. The air was always full of laughter, memories, and good fellowship. Many of Toby’s lifelong friends were part of this brotherhood.
Toby also loved the rural lifestyle and he thrived in it, both as a boy and as a man. He enjoyed walking the ground as much as working it. He saw beauty in most everything but especially things outdoors. Hunting, fishing, and just being outside were some of his life’s true pleasures. But his greatest pleasure and treasure were his family & friends. He was a devoted Grandfather, father, husband, and a friend to many. He always made it a point to be there for any and all family related functions if he was around. For the last 15 years he would spend winters in Eustis Florida with the girl he loved, Naomi Fortney. Their time together was more than special, not only to them but to all of those who knew them. Their example of love and respect was consistently on display for all to see, admire, and aspire too. They were a blessing to one another and to all who knew them. Famous for his quips and one-liners, he had a rare and unique sense of humor that was on display at all times. If you weren’t on your toes he might even have a good chuckle at your expense. But it was always done in great fun. Toby was blessed with experiencing a full and wonderful American life. His generation was indeed The Greatest, and he wore that mantle with humble pride.
He is survived by a son Scott (Keira) Kelly, a daughter Tonya (Noel) Jerome, and five grandchildren. Samantha Jerome, Nathan Jerome, Nickolaus Jerome, Reagan Kelly, and Trace Kelly. He is also survived by his sister Genevieve Beers. His parents along with his two brothers and his son Todd Dale Kelly are deceased. He was also a member of the Loyal Order of the Moose and American Legion, and the IBEW Mansfield local 688.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, December 21, 2011, at the Denzer-Farison-Hottinger & Snyder Funeral Home, 360 East Center Street, Marion, from 4PM to 7PM; Funeral services will be held at the funeral home on Thursday at 10:30AM with Pastor Ken Boswell officiating; Burial will be in Grand Prairie Cemetery.
If so desired, memorial contributions may be made to the charity of choice.
Denzer-Farison-Hottinger & Snyder Funeral Home is honored to have been chosen to serve Edna’s family, and condolences may be expressed to them online by visiting www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.
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