Harold Kelley was an engineer, family man, and community champion who inspired those around him.
As we proudly mark the centennial year of Jones & Henry Engineers, it’s worth pausing to reflect on the remarkable individuals who shaped our company’s history. One who stands out is Harold A. Kelley, whose legacy is one of service, love, and the pursuit of knowledge.
Early Life and Education
Harold Kelley was born in the vibrant town of Boothe, Arkansas, in 1925, and from a very early age, he showed exceptional leadership and commitment. His determination and hard work led him to a remarkable opportunity: an appointment to the esteemed United States Military Academy at West Point. It was here that he met the love of his life, Carolyne Lanxon Ford, at a school dance. Their bond would last for more than 65 years.
After graduating from West Point, Harold’s military service took him to Los Alamos, New Mexico, at a pivotal time, shortly after the atomic bomb was completed. His responsibilities included surveying waterworks to support both the local community and the brilliant scientific minds in the area, contributing to advancements that would shape the future.
Professional Career
Following his military service, Harold pursued a degree in civil engineering at the University of Arkansas, where he graduated summa cum laude. His outstanding academic performance earned him induction into the Tau Beta Pi Honorary Engineering Society, a testament to his character and achievements in engineering.
In 1950, Harold moved to Toledo, Ohio, where he joined Jones & Henry Engineers. Over the span of 34 years, he rose through the ranks to become a partner, Treasurer, and eventually the Chairman and President of the firm. An early adopter of computer technology, Harold leveraged in-house computing systems to enhance engineering project designs and improve efficiency. His remarkable contributions were recognized in 1985, when he was named the Ohio Engineer of the Year by the Ohio Society of Professional Engineers.
But Harold’s thirst for knowledge didn’t end there; he also pursued a law degree at the University of Toledo, earning his Juris Doctor in 1981 while balancing the demands of his role at Jones & Henry. After his tenure with the firm, he practiced environmental law at Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick in Toledo, solidifying his commitment to both engineering excellence and legal integrity.
Family and Community Involvement
Harold was not only dedicated to his professional life but also to his family. He frequently traveled long distances to share dinner with his loved ones, using these gatherings to instill the values of integrity and education in his children. Family vacations were a cherished tradition, often involving camping trips to state and national parks and often including visits to his clients’ waterworks or major universities to inspire his children’s future choices.
A passionate supporter of education, Harold devoted significant time to his children’s and grandchildren’s growth, ensuring they had ample opportunities to thrive. His compassion extended beyond the family, as he regularly donated fresh vegetables from his own garden to the Children’s Home in Maumee, Ohio.
Retirement and Legacy
After retiring, Harold and Carolyne traveled extensively with their Model A Ford Club and visited family across the country. A passionate genealogist, he dedicated much of his time to researching the backgrounds of both his and Carolyne’s families, producing several volumes that he registered at the U.S. Library of Congress and deposited at the Toledo Public Library.
Carolyne’s passing in 2012 was a significant loss, but in 2015, Harold found love again when he married Mary Fulton on his 90th birthday. They spent eight joyous years together, creating beautiful memories.
Harold Kelley’s legacy is a true testament to a life of service, love for family, unwavering support for education, and deep community involvement. He passed away on September 5, 2023, in Florida, after a brief illness, leaving an inspiring mark on his community and a heartwarming family legacy.
A legacy of leadership.
Strong leadership has significantly influenced our growth during our first 100 years.
