Walter Kelly, Jr.

Walt was born to Margaret and Walter Kelly on July 2, 1957, in Yonkers, New York. He grew up in Pearl River, New York, where he enjoyed Boy Scouts—earning the rank of Eagle Scout—working on cars, building forts in the woods, and riding dirt bikes. He also cherished spending time with his siblings. The siblings and their cousins shared many memorable trips together in their camper.

He attended Saint Margaret’s School in Pearl River and later graduated from Pearl River High School. He went on to study at Plymouth State University, where he earned a degree in Marketing.

Walt spent over 40 years working in telecommunications at various cable companies. After retiring, he joined his son at RPK Landscapes, where he served as the company mechanic. He took great pride in maintaining the trucks and equipment and played an integral role in keeping the business running smoothly.

Walt had a generous spirit and was always willing to help others. He volunteered his time with organizations such as Meals on Wheels and Habitat for Humanity.

He loved spending time with his wife, children, and his dogs, Millie and Guinness. Some of his fondest memories were made at Covewood Lodge in Eagle Bay, New York, where his family vacationed together for nearly 40 years.

Between work and leisure, he was an avid traveler, having visited 48 states, and could always offer a restaurant recommendation, a fun fact, or a story about just about anywhere. He also never hesitated to share his opinion on the quality of an airport—good or bad.

Walt was a proud and devoted father. He loved attending his daughter Jess’s charity marathon runs and rowing events, always showing his support. He also shared a special bond with his son Ryan through their mutual love of cars. Two of his most prized possessions were his Model A cars, which they enjoyed working on and driving together.

Walt married his beloved wife, Jody, on August 20, 1988, at Presentation Church in Upper Saddle River. Together, they built a life centered on family and were blessed with two children, Jess and Ryan.

He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Jody; his daughter Jess and her boyfriend Jay; his son Ryan and his wife Laura; his beloved dogs, Millie and Guinness, and granddog Sterling. He is also survived by his brother Rich and wife Lisa; his sister Mary and husband Ed; his brother Joe and wife Mary; his brother Vinny and wife Josi; and many nieces and nephews.

Family and friends are invited to visit with the family on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, from 4–8 p.m. at Becker Funeral Home, 219 Kinderkamack Road, Westwood, NJ 07675.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at 11 a.m. at Our Lady Mother of the Church, 209 Woodcliff Avenue, Woodcliff Lake, NJ 07677, followed by a Committal Service at 12:15 p.m. at Ascension Cemetery, 650 Saddle River Road, Airmont, NY 10952.

We kindly ask that donations be made in his memory to support mesothelioma research by searching for his tribute page or following the link — https://curemeso.salsalabs.org/tributepages/p/inmemoryofwaltkelly/index.html

Flowers are welcomed and may be sent to Becker Funeral Home.