Michael Kelly Obituary

Capt. Michael Bernard Kelly

January 15, 1943 -

July 2, 2025

KINGSPORT - Capt. Michael Bernard Kelly, 82, of Kingsport passed away peacefully after a period of declining health, Wednesday, July 2nd, 2025, with his beloved daughter by his side.

Mike was born January 15th, 1943, in Johnson City, TN to the late Aloysius William Kelly and Blanche Graham Kelly. He attended St. Dominics, Ross and Robinson and was a graduate of Dobyns-Bennett High School where he took ROTC and obtained a football scholarship to Wake Forest University of Winston-Salem NC, earning a Bachelor of Science degree. Dad made some of the greatest, amazing and best life-long friends along the way of this journey. Mike was prepared to be drafted for the Vietnam Conflict. He served his country in Saigon from '66-'68 with the United States Army in the 18th Military Police Brigade. He entered the military as Second Lieutenant and was exited as Captain earning the Bronze Star of Valor. Upon honorable discharge, Mike returned home to serve the Tri-Cities as a licensed insurance agent for 40 years. Mike was an avid golfer and member of Ridgefield's Country Club. He was able to play the master's course by granting military privilege upon his return to the states. His love of football continued by refereeing high school games for years serving East TN and Southwest VA. He was a founding member of the Watauga Street Jogging Association. It was an incredible accomplishment to him completing marathons. He was a dog devotee. Always a canine companion by his side. Mike K. was close friends with Dr. Bob and Bill W. Special gratitude to the Colonial Heights Lodge Hall for your love and support over 36 years.

In addition to his parents, Mike was proceeded in death by his brother, A. Graham Kelly, DDS. and sister, Mary Elizabeth "Betty" Combs.

Those left to cherish Mike's memory are his daughter, Allison George and husband, Steven; his beloved dog, Smartie; brother, James Patrick Kelly and wife Patricia of Knoxville; Glen, Sue and Gina; and his many friends.

Military Graveside Honors will be conducted at Mountain Home National Cemetery under the direction of the American Legion Hammond Post, Kingsport #3 and Gate City Post #265 at 10:00 am Friday, July 11, 2025. Those attending the service are asked to arrive at the cemetery no later than 9:45 am.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Mike's honor to the American Legion Hammond Post #3 Kingsport and Gate City Post #265 for their honor and dedication provided to our fallen heroes, PO Box 66, Kingsport, TN 37662.

To share online condolences with the family please visit www.oakhillfh.com

The care of Cpt. Michael Bernard Joseph Kelly and his family has been entrusted to the staff of Oak Hill Funeral & Cremation Services.