Gregory Mitchell Kelly, 65, passed away at Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville on June 1st with family and dearest friend Molton Smith IV by his side. Born in Gainesville, FL to Clement M. “Mike” Kelly and Patti Ingram McMurray, their young family soon moved to Jacksonville, FL, where kayak fishing the backwaters of Mill Cove was a childhood pastime. Greg graduated from Sandalwood High School in 1977 and enjoyed playing varsity basketball, baseball and football for the Saints, He then attended The University of Florida, earning a B.S. in Business Administration in 1981 as a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon.
Greg spent time as a civilian at the US Navy AUTEC Submarine Base on Andros Island, Bahamas and then had a successful career in medical capital equipment. He established himself as a successful salesman, specifically bio-surgical laser sales, becoming a leading sales manager, and highly skilled surgeon educator. Greg became well known nationally in his field for his ability to build and lead award winning sales teams, as well as his hands-on training of surgeons on new leading-edge technologies in the field.
Greg was an outdoor sports enthusiast, with a love for the beach, ocean kayaking, diving, mountain biking, dirt biking, motocross, snow skiing, and golf. During his retirement years, he enjoyed national and international travel with family and friends. His towering figure, analytical perspectives, quick wit, unique opinions, and hearty laugh were very memorable to those who knew him.
Greg is predeceased by his parents and is survived by his two sons, Travis Kelly of Atlantic Beach, Jack Kelly of Tampa, and sister Lesley Kelly of Colorado. There will be a ‘Celebration of Life’ at Dolphin Plaza, Hanna Park in Atlantic Beach on July 21st, 2024 starting at 12pm. Please honor Greg’s memory by bringing photos and special stories to share.
