Kelly, Thomas M. (Fr.)

Father Thomas M. Kelly was ordained in 1939. In March 2006, a woman reported that Kelly sexually abused her when she was eight years old in 1971. The Archdiocese made a mandated report but deemed the report not credible without investigating. A meeting held with the Archdiocese in October 1971 revealed patterns in Kelly’s behavior, including his drinking habits, actions with young girls and women in the parish, rages, pathological lying, and inability to take responsibility. Concerns were raised about his health, the reputation of the priesthood, and the rectory’s safety due to his drinking. Kelly resigned in December 1971 and continued ministry at Stella Maris.

Despite documented incidents of his continued drinking and involvement in an automobile accident that caused a priest’s death, the Archdiocese has not listed Kelly as credibly accused nor was he substantially investigated. Kelly died on March 4, 1987.