CSM Thomas J. Kelly Jr.

CSM Thomas J. Kelly Jr. A Man of Faith, Fortitude, Family and Fearlessness “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” II Timothy 4:7 Thomas J. Kelly Jr. was born on December 8, 1970, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, to the late Rev. Thomas J. Kelly Sr. and Lovella Kelly. Affectionately known by his family as “Jr.”, Thomas lived a life rooted in love for his family and friends, service to his country and a zest for adventure. Thomas gave his life to Christ at an early age at Beech Grove Baptist Church in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and later rededicated his life to Christ. On July 19, 2026, Thomas joined Ard’s Chapel AME Zion Church in Amite, Louisiana, under the leadership of Rev. Errick L. Baldwin. Thomas’s renewed commitment to his faith and doctrine serve as a meaningful part of the final chapter of his earthly journey. Thomas attended the illustrious Southern University and A&M College in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where he became a part of one of the university’s most celebrated traditions - the world-renowned Human Jukebox Marching Band. As a trumpeter, Thomas proudly carried the precision, pageantry, discipline, and excellence synonymous with the Jukebox. Thomas’s time at Southern represented a prominent chapter in his life, engraving his legacy into the tradition of pride and excellence that would render in his life until the final note was played. He later earned his bachelor’s degree. After college, Thomas went on to devote more than 28 years of his life to the United States Army ultimately attaining the distinguished rank of Command Sergeant Major. Any of his colleagues can attest to his valiance as a leader and his integrity as a man of honor. His remarkable military service, sacrifice, leadership, and accomplishments will be exemplified separately in A Soldier’s Journey. Beyond the uniform and the metals, there was simply Jr., a family man with an irresistible personality and a sense of humor that could turn an ordinary moment into one worth remembering. He loved to laugh, enjoy good music, and spend time with the people he loved. His presence had an everlasting impact on any room he entered, and the memories he created often came wrapped in love. Thomas also found joy on the open road as a member of Steel Fist Riderz MC where he was known to his riding brothers as “Chatter.” Through his love of motorcycles, Chatter found another brotherhood; one built on fellowship, loyalty, shared miles, and memories he treasured. But nothing brought out Thomas’s pride quite like his family - especially his four daughters, Briana Devers, Brittany Kelly, Bethany Kelly, and Bryleigh Kelly affectionately known as “The B Girls.” Anyone who knew Thomas never had to wonder how he felt about his girls. He was the epitome of a “GirlDad” before it became a trending topic. Thomas never missed a moment to express his deep pride and love for his baby girls. No rank or accomplishment could replace the role of being a Dad. Thomas also shared a loving relationship with his beloved companion, Sheila Carr. Together they shared a kinship built on laughter, love and dreams for the future. Though time did not allow every dream they shared to be fulfilled, the bond between them was genuine and meaningful. Sheila will forever hold a special place in Thomas’s life story. Left to cherish Thomas’s memory are his loving mother, Lovella Kelly; his four beloved daughters, Briana Devers, (David Devers), Brittany Kelly, Bethany Kelly, and Bryleigh Kelly; his brother, Anthony G. Kelly (Eshea Kelly); his sister, Marcy N. Kelly; and his beloved companion, Sheila Carr. He is also lovingly remembered by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, friends, fellow Soldiers, church family, riding brothers, and all whose lives were touched by his presence. Thomas was preceded in death by his father, Rev. Thomas J. Kelly Sr. and his sister, Renita Kelly-Hooker. To some he was Command Sergeant Major. To his riding family, he was Chatter. To his daughters, he was Daddy. And to the family who loved him long before the accolades and accomplishments, he was simply Jr. He leaves behind a legacy of faith, family, service, laughter, love, and memories that will live on for generations.

CSM Thomas J. Kelly Jr.

December 8, 1970 - August 11, 2026