Jerry Kelly was born on November 23rd, 1966 in Winconsin, USA. At high school he was an all-city ice hockey selection. He then attended the University of Hartford and his professional golf career began in 1986. He struggled in his early years as a pro on the lower ranked tours.

In 1995 he a good season on the Nike Tour (now the Nationwide Tour) winning two tournaments and earning his playing rights onto the PGA Tour. His best season then came in 2002 when he won twice on tour. Since then he has been consistent but has failed to add to those victories.