John Michael Kelly

John Michael Kelly, age 82, passed away Tuesday, September 28, 2021 surrounded by his children. He was born November 18, 1938 to General Joe William and Virginia Elizabeth Kelly. Mike (as he was known) was a natural jokester. He enjoyed being with his family, going to church, visiting friends at Lake Martin, and for many years camping and riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle. Mike started the Okaloosa Walton County chapter of the Christian Motorcycle Association (CMA). Mike was a hard worker. He had many professions in his lifetime including serving in the United States Marines, being a Florida Highway Patrolman, owning a trucking company, and right up until his passing he worked as an insurance agent. He enjoyed the simple life, but refused to retire. If you were a client or acquaintance of his, you were his friend; he believed in personable service.

Mike’s passion for life was his family. He is survived by two sons, Michael Kelly and Christopher Kelly (Kimberly) of Destin, Florida; one daughter, Amanda Kelly of Niceville, Florida; and two step-daughters, Tessie Vandermate (Will) of San Antonio, Texas and Jenny Barton (Ben) of DeFuniak Springs, Florida; four grandchildren, Josie Barton, Fisher Kelly, Addie Kelly, and Racheal Tucker; and three great-grandchildren. His grandchildren were his real joy and greatest pleasure.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, October 2, 2021 beginning at 11 a.m. at Davis Watkins Funeral Home, 1474 State Highway 83 North, DeFuniak Springs, Florida 32433, with Minister Joel Davis officiating. A time of visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Committal services will follow at Hatcher Cemetery with military honors provided by the United States Marine Corps. Flowers will be accepted or donations may be made to Christian Motorcycle Association (CMA) in Mike's honor.

Arrangements and services are under the direction of Davis-Watkins Funeral Home of DeFuniak Springs, Florida.