John Robert “Jack” Kelley

Apr 14, 1962 - May 20, 2026

John Robert “Jack” Kelley, 64, passed away suddenly on Tuesday morning, May 19, 2026. Born on April 14, 1962, to his loving parents, John “Jack” and Joan Kelley, he proudly carried his father’s name and was a kindhearted man who loved his family deeply.

Though Jack lived with cerebral palsy and was unable to walk, he never allowed his physical limitations to define him. Growing up in the Hudson Valley, he was active and highly motivated in the programs he attended throughout his life. He was a true example of strength and perseverance, showing everyone around him that courage comes from within. Any physical challenges he faced were far outweighed by his vibrant spirit, generous heart, and unwavering love for family and friends.

After the heartbreaking loss of his brothers—Kevin, who passed away from pneumonia in infancy, and Matthew, who passed away from cystic fibrosis at the age of 19—Jack naturally stepped into the role of eldest sibling. He carried that role with love and pride, especially when it came to his cherished nieces, nephews, and their growing families.

Jack is survived by his brother, Joe Kelley; his sister, Gail Mazza, and her husband, Marc; and his sister, Kimberly Ocampo, and her fiancé, Derek Terry, whom Jack loved dearly.

He also leaves behind the nieces and nephews he adored: Amber Clavin, Marc Mazza, and Anthony “Tony” Mazza; Erin Kelley Perice and her husband, Anthony Perice; Kayla Brown; Jose Kelley; Kevin Kelley; and John Ocampo, along with John’s fiancée, Lisa Palimenteer.

Jack’s loving memory will continue through his many great-nieces and great-nephews: Shana, Landon, Noah, Aiden Matthew, Juno, Charlie Jr., Ellie, Nicole Kelley, and Shane Ocampo. Charlie Jr. and Ellie held a particularly special place in Jack’s heart during his final days.

He was predeceased by his parents, John “Jack” and Joan Kelley, and his brothers, Kevin and Matthew.

In loving memory of Jack and his beautiful reunion with his parents, the family finds comfort in Joan’s favorite prayer, Psalm 23:

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.”