Stephen (Steve) Jay Kelly

Stephen (Steve) Jay Kelly, 63, a resident of Lee County, FL for the past 25 years, formerly of Springfield, OH, passed away Friday, July 26, 2024 in Cape Coral, FL. He was born April 5, 1961 in Springfield, OH to Robert and Rosemary (Quinlan) Kelly, now deceased.

Steve briefly served in the Navy, but he found his true calling as a self-taught master at residential carpentry. From grand homes to intricate staircases, each piece he worked on was a testament to his craftsmanship and attention to detail. For most of his life, Steve was often on the move, traveling to venture out and follow opportunities to build dreams. His adventurous spirit and dedication to his craft took him to many places, always with his beloved dogs and tools in tow. His dogs were not just pets but cherished members of his family.

Steve was also known for his sass, humor, storytelling, and stubbornness, traits that endeared him to many. Although he was social with the unique ability to make anyone smile, laugh, or blush, Steve was a closet introvert that often avoided crowds or large gatherings. His warm personality and infectious humor left a lasting impression on everyone he met. He will be remembered not only for his remarkable carpentry skills but also for his love of animals, music, and his generosity to those around him. Whether it was holding the door for someone, making a passing waitress stop to smile (and blush), or opening his kitchen to those in need on Thanksgiving, Steve’s kindness overshadowed any other act.

He is survived by his former wife, Debra Lee of Deerfield, IL; two loving children, Justin Kelly of Deerfield, IL and Daniell Strain (Jeremy) of Elk Grove, CA; eight siblings, Mike Kelly of Cape Coral, FL, Ann Wilder (Ike) of Fort Myers Beach, FL, Tom Kelly of Madison, NC, Carol Morningstar (Dave) of Fort Myers, FL, Sue Madden (Tom) of Cincinnati, OH, Kay Cummings of Cincinnati, OH, Casey Rollins (Rob) of Springfield, OH, and Colleen Turner (James d.) of Punta Gorda, FL; grandchildren, Thomas and Oliver; Lacey and Oscar, his beloved dogs and loyal companions; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Steve was preceded in death by his parents and three sisters, MaryPat Kelly, Marilyn Kelly, and Mary Kelly.

Memorial Services will be held at 3:30 PM on Thursday, August 1, 2024, at Mullins Memorial, 3654 Palm Beach Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33916.

Memorial Contributions in memory of Stephen (Steve) Jay Kelly are suggested to Cape Coral Animal Shelter at 325 SW 2nd Ave, Cape Coral, FL 33991.

Mullins Memorial Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Fort Myers, is entrusted with final care.