Mr. James Kelly, affectionately known as “Bo,” was born on October 31, 1938, in Valdosta, Georgia. A quiet and gentle giant with a sincere heart and warm spirit. He lived a life rooted in faith, service, and love for others. Mr. Kelly departed this earthly life, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to his family, church, and community. A devoted member of First Baptist Church of College Hill, Mr. Kelly faithfully served in numerous capacities throughout the years. He diligently ran the Transportation Ministry, ensuring that members could attend worship services and church activities with care and reliability. His passion for safety and excellence also led him to help revamp the security training for the church’s Security Ministry. In addition, he honorably served as a Trustee at First Baptist of College Hill until his health no longer allowed him to continue actively.

Mr. Kelly was a loving people person who genuinely enjoyed seeing others succeed. Though quiet in demeanor, his presence was powerful, comforting, and deeply respected by all who knew him. His sincere smile, gentle nature, and wonderful sense of humor brought joy to family, friends, and acquaintances alike. Outside of his church service, Mr. Kelly found happiness in life’s simple pleasures. He enjoyed walking, going out to dinner, and gardening. Whether tending to his garden or sharing laughter over a meal, he cherished spending time with others and creating meaningful connections. Mr. Kelly’s life was a shining example of humility, faithfulness, and kindness. He leaves treasured memories that will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved him. He retired from the Hillsborough County School District as a Security Guard after 26 years of service.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Elzie Kelly (Nell) and Robbie Mae Adams; daughter, Betty Kelly; aunt, Lillie Rodriguez; uncle, Sergio; brothers, Elzie Kelly Jr, Robert Lee Kelly and Terry Kelly; sisters, Marjorie Ann Griffith and Pauline Mosely.

He leaves to cherish his memories his devoted wife Geraldine Kelly; daughters, Jean Rivera (David) of Sanford Florida and Yolanda Ervin of Tampa Florida.; grandchildren, Kenya Connor, Brent Connor and Terry Kelly-Rimes all of Jacksonville Florida; great-grandchildren, Alvin Gathers, Jaymes Mobley, Aaliyah Connor, Mariah Connor and Tajh Vinnett; sister, Linda J. Graham (Eddie); brothers, Bobby L. Kelly (Angela) of Atlanta, Ga, Ronnie L. Kelly of Valdosta, GA, Michael E. Kelly (Shirley) of Valdosta GA, and Willie F. Mathis of Lakeland, GA.; brother-in-law, Reginald Morrison, along with a host of nieces, nephews and friends; special thanks, brother-in-law, Reginald Morrison, Deacon Samuel and Martha Joyner, Deacon Harold and Linda Simpson, Deacon Ernest Lockly, Gail Kirkpatrick; our neighbor, Rev Dr. Evan Burrows, Rev Chris Jarnegan, The Titus 2 Ladies Small Group and the Bless His Name Sunday School Class.