Leroy Kelley Jr.

Leroy Kelley Jr. of New Haven, Connecticut gained his wings on Monday, September 22, 2025. He passed away peacefully at the age of 58 years old at Yale New Haven Hospital surrounded by his family members. He was born on December 29,1966. Jr, as we nicknamed him, liked to rebuild things by undoing electrical wiring and re-connecting them. He taught himself how to repair bikes, radios, and other electrical items. His favorite entertainer was Bruce Lee, whom he would imitate with the nunchucks and karate shoes. One thing that will never be forgotten about Jr. is if you told him something, you better believe he is not going to forget it. He will definitely hold you to your word. Leroy was also one of those people that if you tell him not to do something, he is going to do it! In addition, his goals were to work with young people and be a positive role model that provided examples and allowed the children to be prepared for life’s challenges. Towards the end of his life, Junior was able to experience something he prayed many years for: his sobriety! Leroy often talked to the Lord and prayed for deliverance from his vices. God answered his prayers! Leroy revealed that God talked to him and he accepted the Lord’s requests of him to be sober. Leroy accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior and was baptized at Beulah Heights in New Haven. Our father, Leroy Kelley Sr. and grandmother, Lola Kelley were great examples to Jr. Leroy loved his mother, Shirley Kelley, if he could he would move the earth for her. He never forgot his mother’s love. Jr. loved everything outdoors: oceans, lakes, ponds, turtles, birds, and etc. Jr. loved chocolate, Colombian coffee, and his nephew Troy's banana pudding. Jr. loved the water as well, maybe that is why his favorite color was blue! Leroy attended the New Haven Public school system. His favorite gym teacher was Mr. Jackson from Jackie Robinson Middle School. Afterwards, he enrolled at Job Corps of New Haven to focus on career opportunities. There will be a scholarship set-up in Leroy Kelley Jr.’s name to help the youth. Leroy leaves to cherish his memory; Mom Shirley T. Kelley, sisters Carlessia (Michael), Shirley A., Wanda (Keir), and brother Troy; nieces and nephews La’Keya (Carl), Jayuan, Troy, Ericka, Troy S., Tyla, Tyesha, Keirianna, Brandon, Brianna, K.J., Ashia and Juju; great nieces and nephews Jayuan, Jamal, Ny’Aire, Trinity, Jayce, Kadence, Zuri, and Nyla; special great nieces and nephews; special cousin Clayton; special childhood friend Cecil, and John R.; special lady friend Audrey (Blue) and hosts of aunts, uncles, and cousins; Newhallville friends, especially Bassett Street where he held so many memories. He was predeceased by his loving father, Leroy Kelley Sr. of New Haven, CT.

Leroy Kelley Jr.

December 29, 1966 - September 22, 2025