Donald Morris Kelley went to be with our Lord and Savior on November 27, 2024. Don was a Tampa Native born September 11, 1948. He had the privilege of being in the first graduating class of Leto High School in 1967. After high school in 1968 he joined the United States Navy Reserve. He spent nine months of morse code training and received a CTR-SN. He spent two years of active duty until he was honorably discharged in 1972 back to his reserve status in Tampa where he spent another two years of reserve service. During high school he worked for U-Save grocery stores and once his time in the Navy was over he returned to U-Save and spent 42 years until they closed. He had a 55 + year career in grocery buying.

Don was an American Patriot. Outside of God and his Family he loved Florida Gator Football and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. You could find him on any given Saturday and Sunday watching football and cheering his teams on. He loved the outdoors, classic rock and playing the guitar. Turkey hunting and fishing were among his favorite ways to spend his time as well as listening to Led Zeplin, Journey and Santana.

Don deeply loved his family, and his family deeply loved him. He was the center of every holiday, get together and daily happenings in our lives. He is survived by his loving wife Veronica of 39 years. Daughter Kristin Ripley, Daughter Kimmie Wander (Danny), Daughter Lauren Carrasco (Michael), Daughter Diane Loftin (Billy) and Son Phillip Thomas. Seven grandchildren – Audrey, Luke, Kayla, Hannah, Aiden, Brielle and Addilyn. Three great-grandchildren – Stetson, Marleigh and Case.

While our family struggles with this loss we are comforted with the fact Don loved and knew Jesus Christ which brings peace in our grief. Until we see each other again in heaven.

John14:27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

Don will be laid to rest at Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell Florida with immediate family present.