St. George, Utah - James William Kelly pulled into victory lane with his family at his side on February 6, 2013. Jim is survived by his loving wife, Gilma and children John, David, Diane, Carol, and Mark. He was born to James Allen Kelly and Jarmila Schwerma on March 15, 1938 in Los Angeles, California.

Jim grew up in the Gardena, California and attended Harbor Junior College in Wilmington, California. The turning point of his life came about when he was swept off his feet by the Rose Bowl Queen, Gilma May Glavinic. The two of them started their life together in San Pedro, California on June 13, 1959.

While attending college, he decided he needed to serve his community. Jim Kelly became a dedicated Officer of the Law as a patrolman with the Arroyo Grande Police Department and again, pressed forward two years with his dedicated wife at his side. He served a two year commitment to the police force and changed pace once again to try his hand at farming and ranching which proved to be his calling in life.

Working for numerous professional farms and ranches. Jim proved this was the right path to follow. This profession allowed him to raise numerous ranch stock in California, Ohio, and Utah. He also tended many fruit orchards throughout California and Ohio. With his knowledge of fruit tree maintenance, Jim wrote a book on proper apple tree pruning and growing techniques. In time, he made it to Utah to run a large feed mill and support his family. Finally, his skills took him to Kanosh, Utah where he put all his farming and ranching skills to test.

Jim had a passion for speed which he continuously tried to improve through buying, building, and modifying cars. His final project he fretted over was his 1969 Mach 1 Mustang.

A remembrance service will be held Tuesday, February 12, 2013 at 2:00 p.m. at the Metcalf Mortuary Chapel, 288 West St. George Blvd., St. George, Utah. Visitations will be held Monday evening, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and on Tuesday, prior to services, at 1:00 p.m., both at Metcalf Mortuary. Jim Kelly's final victory lap, legacy, and resting place will be Washington City Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to the care of Metcalf Mortuary, (435) 673-4221.