James Harold Kelley

James Harold Kelley, Jr., age 76, of Adamsville, Tennessee, died on December 16, 2025, at his residence. He was born on January 17, 1949, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, to the late James Harold Kelley and Bonnie Mize Kelley.

James was of the Christian faith and a proud member of the American Legion. He was known by many as a true jack of all trades, always able to fix just about anything and always willing to help. James had a big heart and a playful sense of humor, earning him the reputation of being a jokester who loved to make others laugh. He especially enjoyed playing Santa Claus and doing charitable things for others, finding joy in giving and serving his community.

In his quieter moments, James loved collecting movies, sipping chocolate milk, spending time with his cats, and enjoying a good peanut butter and jelly sandwich. Above all else, he was a devoted family man who loved his family deeply and treasured time spent with them.

He is survived by his wife, Arlene Kelley; his daughters, Caroline Kelley, Sheryl Schuman, Pamela Jurda, and Adrian Gilley; his sons, Alexander Kelley and Michael Kelley; his brother, Stephen Kelley; eleven grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Shannon Kelley.

A memorial service to celebrate James’s life will be announced at a later date.

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