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Donald R. Kelly, age 77, of Bryceville, Florida passed away on Thursday, February 24, 2022, at St. Vincent’s Medical Center Riverside with his family by his side. He was born in High Springs, Florida on August 21, 1944, to the late Lonzie Kelly and Evelyn Corrie O’Steen Kelly. Donald was raised in Jacksonville and graduated from Paxon High School. Following school, he met the love of his life, Sioda Louise “Bunny” Oxford, and they were happily married on August 28, 1965. A few years after marriage, Donald and Bunny moved to Bryceville and made Nassau County their forever home. Together they enjoyed attending Evangel Temple Assembly of God where they loved worshipping their Lord and Savior. Donald was a devoted husband, loving father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother and friend. He was known for his sweet spirit, gentle heart, generous nature, and loving ways. Donald enjoyed a long career in the structural steel industry as a Purchasing Manager for steel fabricator Owen Steel. He also had a passion for woodworking and was very talented in his carving abilities. Donald made tables, furniture, clocks, cabinets, and hand carved wood crosses. He spent many hours shaping each cross to perfection, all while praying over the hands that would receive this precious gift. Donald was an avid FSU and Nascar fan who enjoyed watching the races and football games. More than anything, Donald loved his family and truly loved spending time with them. Donald was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Connie Wingate; sister, Dot McKenzie; and brother, John Wayne Kelly. Donald is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Bunny Kelly of Bryceville, FL; daughter, Kimberly (James) Stormer of Bryceville, FL; brothers, Harold (Barbara) Kelly of Callahan, FL, Bryan Kelly of Middleburg, FL, A.L. “Alton” (Denise) Kelly, Howard (Patti) Kelly, and Ronnie (Rose) Kelly all of Jacksonville, FL; sisters, Lora (Johnny) Brewer and Evone Hutchinson both of Jacksonville, FL; brother-in-law, James McKenzie of GA; sister-in-law, Carol Kelly of Jacksonville, FL; grandchildren, Jennifer (Shane) Petty, Wesley Wingate, Jacob Wingate, Mindy (Brian) Wester, Jamie (Mike Placido) Lott, Casey Hemphill, and Hannah Hemphill; great grandchildren, Bryson and Brayden Wester, Cali and Cash Lott, Cruz Placido, and Memphis and Grayson Petty; along with numerous extended family members and friends. A Celebration of Donald’s Life will be held on Tuesday, March 1, 2022, at 2:00 pm at Evangel Temple Assembly of God with Pastor Garry Wiggins officiating. Interment will follow at Brandy Branch Cemetery in Bryceville, FL. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Ferreira Funeral Services, 1320 Chaffee Road South, Jacksonville, FL, 32221, 904-378-7777. Visit www.ferreirafuneralservices.com to sign the family’s guest book.

Tributes

Donald R. Kelly

August 21, 1944 - February 25, 2022