A lineage of service
When Raymond “Ray” J. Kelly Jr. started his investment practice in 1950 with Goodbody & Co. in downtown Flint the idea that it would be the start of a nearly 75-year Kelly family tradition wasn’t at the top of Ray’s mind. Instead, his focus was on providing his clients with good advice guided by impeccable personal ethical standards. Throughout his career, he never lost sight that each investment represented his clients’ goals, hard work and dreams. He knew the stakes; he stood by his values. His life was an example to his family.
In 1956, he launched the first branch office of Roney & Co., also in Flint, dually serving as branch manager of the office until 1974.
His son, Raymond J. “R.J.” Kelly III joined his father in 1969. Both continued to build their practices on the strength of their reputations and commitment to service. Father and son would serve as co-branch managers from 1974 to 1988 until R.J. took sole responsibility. In their careers, both would become partners in Roney & Co. R.J. served on the board of directors from 1988 to 1998, leading up to the firm’s sale to Raymond James.
Under Raymond James, R.J. again took branch management duties from 2012 to 2015, and continued to grow his practice, earning recognition as a member of the Raymond James President’s Council* 12 times over a 13-year period.
In February 2011, David “Dave” Kelly joined Raymond James to work with his father, R.J., having previously worked as a financial advisor for four years in Chicago. From 2011 to 2017, as the branch moved to its current Grand Blanc location, R.J. and Dave worked together with their clients, with Dave earning President’s Council recognition in 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018.*
In April 2019, Dave, like his grandfather and father before him, followed another family tradition by becoming the branch manager of the Grand Blanc office.
After 47 years with Roney & Co. and Raymond James, R.J. retired in January 2017 to spend more time writing, reading and traveling with his wife, Kathleen, to see their five children and eight grandchildren.
Given the long-standing tradition, Dave remains committed to continuing the legacy of his father and grandfather. The principles and standards set forth by the example of Ray and R.J. continue to guide Dave’s practice each day.
Though the decades, news cycles and even investment opportunities may have changed, the ideals by which the Kelly family has served many in the Flint area have not. They look forward to continuing to serve their clients for many years to come.
*Membership is based mainly on assets under management, education, credentials and fiscal year production. Requalification is required annually. The ranking may not be representative of any one client’s experience, is not an endorsement and is not indicative of advisor’s future performance. No fee is paid in exchange for this award/rating.
