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HJR 516

Memorials, Death - Don Kelley -

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Kip Capley

The resolution ceremonially honors Don Kelley for his public service and community leadership, without creating laws or obligations.

Signed by Governor.
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Bill Summary · HJR 516

Summary of House Joint Resolution 516 (HJR 516)

Overview and purpose

  • HJR 516 is a ceremonial joint resolution recognizing and honoring the memory of Don Kelley of Lawrenceburg.
  • Introduced March 27, 2025, by Representative Capley. The resolution expresses condolences to Kelley’s family and memorializes his public service and community involvement.
  • Status: Signed by the Governor on April 15, 2025. This is a memorial resolution and does not impose new laws or fiscal obligations.

Key provisions and content

  • The resolution notes Kelley as a retired fire chief of the Lawrenceburg Fire Department and an instructor at the Tennessee State Fire Academy.
  • It recognizes his roles in the community, including membership in the Lawrenceburg Rotary Club, Mars Hill Baptist Church, and the NRA, and his interests as a fisherman.
  • It highlights Kelley’s family and survivors: daughter Kassie Kelly, his mother Marjorie Inman Jones, companion Pam Lipscomb, and niece Kelli Daniel; it also acknowledges his father L. V. Kelley and siblings (predeceased: Sandy Glass and Terry Wayne Kelley).
  • The text asserts his “impeccable character,” commitment to public life, and dedication to family values.
  • Provisions include a directive that an appropriate copy of the resolution be prepared for presentation, with the standard final clause and formatting for presentation to Kelley’s family or an appropriate party.

Who is affected

  • Don Kelley’s family and close associates receive formal recognition and condolences from the General Assembly.
  • The Lawrenceburg community and state audiences receive a ceremonial acknowledgment of Kelley’s public service and civic engagement.
  • The General Assembly itself is the primary actor in commemorating Kelley’s life.

Procedural history and timeline

  • 2025-03-27: Introduced and placed on House consent calendar.
  • 2025-03-31: Adopted by the House (Ayes 93, Nays 0, PNV 2). Sponsor added.
  • 2025-04-01 to 04-03: Transmitted to Senate; referred to Senate Calendar Committee; placed on Senate consent calendar for 04/07.
  • 2025-04-07: Senate concurrence (Ayes 32, Nays 0).
  • 2025-04-09: Enrolled; transmitted to Governor; signed by the Senate and House Speakers.
  • 2025-04-14: Transmitted to Governor for action.
  • 2025-04-15: Signed by Governor.

Significance and impact

  • This is a ceremonial, non-substantive resolution expressing respect and sympathy for a former public servant and community leader.
  • It serves as an official historical record of Don Kelley’s life and contributions and reflects the General Assembly’s practice of honoring notable citizens.
  • No new statutes, regulations, or fiscal obligations are created by this measure.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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