Matthew James Kelly

Matthew James Kelly was a devoted husband, loving father, thoughtful teacher, and lifelong learner whose curiosity and kindness shaped every part of his life. Matt lived first and foremost for his entire family and his friends. One of his greatest joys was in caring for his daughters and his wife. He lived for spending quality time with his siblings, parents, and friends in sharing new experiences together.

Matt is survived by his beloved daughters, Danny and Casey, who were the center of his world, in addition to his wife, Monica Kelly. He is also survived by his mother, Elaine Kelly; his father, Tom Kelly; his twin brother, Michael Kelly; his older sister, Alexandra Kelly and Alex’s partner Neal Getz.

Matt’s passions reflected his wide-ranging curiosity and thoughtful nature. He was an avid reader whose interests spanned from Russian classics to the ancient Greek epics. He spoke of his favorite authors being Charles Dickens and Sherman Alexie. He had a special love for classic fantasy films such as The Lord of the Rings and Harry Potter (during the holiday season), in addition to films he grew up with, such as Space Balls and Forrest Gump. He loved music (His current Spotify age was 67), spending time in the kitchen experimenting with new recipes (and making bulk quantities of food), and being outdoors—especially camping, hiking, and going on “nature walks” with his daughters. A lifelong journal keeper, Matt faithfully recorded his thoughts and reflections in numerous journals throughout his life. He enjoyed time with friends, a good game of cornhole with a cold beer in hand, and tackling new and unfamiliar projects around the house or on the cars, never afraid to learn by doing. Frequent family visits to Death Valley National Park while he was growing up formed core childhood memories for Matt, making it one of his favorite places.

Matt earned his undergraduate degree from Gonzaga University (2016) and soon after dedicated a year of service with the Jesuit Volunteer Corps in Omak, Washington (2016–2017). Guided by a deep commitment to service and education, he went on to earn his master’s degree from Pacific Lutheran University (2024). Matt spent his career as an elementary school teacher, serving students in the Auburn School District (2023-2024), Federal Way School District (2024-2025), and Marysville School District (2025), where he was recognized for his patience, care, and genuine love for his students.

Matt was known for his quick, gentle wit—his jokes clever, thoughtful, and often drawn from his vast range of knowledge. He coined the use of words and phrases for his own unique expression, such as “scribblings” (referring to leftover food on a plate), “muffin chest” (for that feeling when you swallow too big a bite and the food is slowly making its way down the esophagus), and “crumple face” (referring to any grumpy-looking face).

Above all else, Matt will be remembered for his deep love for all of his friends and family, his steady presence, and the quiet, meaningful way he cared for those around him. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the lessons he taught, and the love he shared.

Please accept our heartfelt gratitude for your support during this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, and to honor Matt’s deep love for nature, please consider making a donation in his honor to the one place in nature he visited and treasured most: Death Valley National Park. The National Park Service accepts online donations for specific parks via Pay.gov. A check payable to “National Park Service” can also be mailed to: Park Superintendent, Death Valley National Park, PO Box 579, Death Valley, CA 92328.

Family and close friends will honor Matt’s memory in a private gathering at a later date.