Warren "Scobby" Kelly Obituary (1933 - 2024)

Warren “Scobby” Kelly moved on to his next journey on December 24, 2024, after 91 years of a well-lived life. He passed away peacefully with family by his side. His story began on July 29, 1933, when he was born to Annie Reddish Kelly and Enoch Kelly in Starke, Florida. In addition to his trademark Stetson, Scobby wore a lot of hats in life. He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, followed by a career as an electrician. Farming was in his blood, and he later established a poultry farm in Keystone Heights, the city where he lived and raised his family. Scobby was also known for his various side hustles, which are the stuff of local legend. Maybe best described as a redneck renaissance man, Scobby lived life his way. His was a life filled with adventures big and small … with many of the stories of those adventures being true! One day, you might find him on his farm, sitting on his tailgate swapping stories with Tom Petty. The next day, you’d spot him on the campaign trail with Ronald Reagan (both true). Most often, however, you’d find him surrounded by the multitudes who wandered into his orbit. Whether cruising the roads in his red Ford truck - always red, always Ford - or holding court on a tailgate, he had a knack for making life’s simple moments memorable and fun. That red Ford wasn’t just a vehicle; much like his Stetson, it was an extension of his personality. Everyone knew it was Scobby coming down the road - and you knew you were about to get a big smile and a wave! His farm was much more than a business - for decades it was the social hub of Keystone Heights. Friends, family and even strangers quickly became part of his circle; once you were in, you were in for life. His pole barn parties were legendary; generations grew up laughing, dancing, eating and drinking under that roof. The tales of these parties continue to be shared to this day. Scobby wasn’t only a guy who never met a stranger; he was a guy who made strangers feel like they had known him forever. He didn’t just leave a mark on his corner of the world - he left tire tracks, footprints and a sense that life was meant to be filled with laughter, friends and a few shenanigans. At his core, he was a happy man - and he was dedicated to bringing happiness to those around him. Scobby crafted life into his own unique art form. They truly broke the mold when they made him, but the world will always be brighter because he was here. His absence leaves a huge hole in the lives of Marion, Joey and Alan and the legions of family and friends who knew and loved him. But Scobby wouldn’t want us to dwell on that void. Instead, honor his memory by living life as he did. Talk to a stranger, wave to random cars you pass on the street, chat with someone much longer than you should, explore a controversial “enterprise” … and definitely work “that’s what she said” into your conversations. Services/celebrations will be announced at a later date. Until then, celebrate Scobby by sharing his stories … stories of a man who turned life into one fabulous ride. Arrangements are under the care of MILAM FUNERAL HOME, INC., 311 s. Main St., Gainesville, FL 32601. (352) 376-5361. www.milamfh.com