Roll Call Tribute

J. Kelly Mowry 

December 8, 1958 - November 14, 2024 

J. Kelly Mowry was born the 8th of December 1958 and passed away peacefully at his beloved ranch in Chappell Hill on Thursday, the 14th of November 2024, at the age of 65. J. Kelly was a proud and steadfast Texan whose optimism and “git-er-done” attitude inspired all that he met. Generous to his core, he shared everything except for his signature cowboy hat and boots…but if you really needed them, they’d be given to you with a smile on his face.

J. Kelly graduated from Aldine High School in 1976. He then attended Texas A&M University, where he earned a degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1980 and remained a fightin’ Texas Aggie to the end. With an unwavering commitment to service, he entered the police academy where he started working with the Harris County Sherriff’s Office, all while working at the family company, Gull Industries/Armoloy of Texas.

When his father, Jim, passed away, J. Kelly stepped in to lead Gull Industries, where his grit, integrity, and visionary leadership helped transform the company into a global leader in metal coating products. He earned respect for his hands-on approach and tireless work ethic, eventually becoming president. His leadership was not just about the bottom line – it was about building community and inspiring innovation.

Throughout his career, J. Kelly was a passionate advocate for industry collaboration and workforce development. He was a dedicated leader within trade associations, including one with membership of over 900 companies worldwide. J. Kelly played a pivotal role in the Texas Association of Metal Finishers, serving multiple terms as President and dedicating more than 40 years to advancing the trade. He also worked tirelessly on the Governmental Affairs Committee to bridge gaps between industry and government, earning the highest honors from the association. In 2006, the Department of Public Safety recognized his dedication and service to the community by naming him “Citizen of the Year.”

Despite his many professional accomplishments, J. Kelly’s proudest role was that of a father and grandfather. He was a devoted and loving dad to Amanda, Kelly Jr., Jack, and Alexis, and grandfather to Henry and Fiadh. Always their biggest cheerleader, he celebrated their successes with unmatched pride and offered unwavering love and support through every step of their lives. Kelly didn’t just raise his children; he instilled in them a passion for adventure, a respect for hard work, and a belief in the power of kindness and integrity.

He delighted in sharing his passions with his kids, whether it was teaching them to hunt across the rugged terrains of Texas and far-off places around the globe, soaring through the skies in his plane, or simply reveling in the great outdoors. He encouraged them to embrace every opportunity, to find joy in life, and to cherish the time spent with loved ones.

J. Kelly was larger than life – a magnetic presence that filled every room he entered. A natural storyteller with a voice full of Texas charm, his tales were infused with humor, wisdom, and a touch of mischief. Friends and strangers alike were drawn to his warmth, his unshakable faith in the goodness of people, and his ability to turn even the simplest moments into cherished memories.

He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, leadership, and the indomitable Texas spirit. His memory lives on in his children, his extended family, the countless friends and colleagues who were privileged to know him, and of course his beloved golden retrievers. J. Kelly Mowry’s life was a celebration of what it means to live fully, love fiercely, and leave the world better than you found it.

A memorial service to honor J. Kelly’s remarkable life is to be conducted at two o’clock in the afternoon on Tuesday, the 26th of November in the Jasek Chapel of Geo. H. Lewis & Sons, 1010 Bering Drive in Houston. Immediately following, all are invited to greet the family during a reception in the adjacent grand foyer.

In lieu of customary remembrances, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to the DPS Troopers Foundation by visiting online at texasdpsoa.com in J. Kelly’s name, supporting the causes he held dear.

J. Kelly Mowry will always be remembered as a trailblazer in his field, a man of extraordinary kindness, and a true embodiment of the Texas spirt. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched and the lasting impact of his work. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.