Matthew “Matt” Kelley, 55, Remembered for Family, Faith and Service in Elmhurst

 Matthew “Matt” Edward Kelley, a longtime Elmhurst, Illinois, resident remembered for his devotion to family, friends and community, died on September 24, 2026, at age 55. His passing leaves behind his wife, Jill, their sons, Brian and Kevin, and relatives, friends, colleagues and young people he coached. Friends remember the kindness and laughter he brought into their lives, as well as the care he showed for people around him.

Born June 18, 1971, in Lansdale, Pennsylvania, Kelley later moved with his family to Maryland, where he made cherished early memories on the water with his father. Boating remained meaningful throughout his life. Years later, he would share the same enjoyment with his own family, creating experiences that became especially treasured by his sons. For Kelley, time together was a chance to teach, connect and build lasting memories.

Education shaped another important part of Kelley’s story. He graduated from the University of Notre Dame in 1993 with a degree in accounting, and his affection for the school continued long after graduation. He remained enthusiastic about Fighting Irish football, memorable tailgates and trips back to South Bend, where he reconnected with friends and revisited familiar places. He later earned an MBA in finance and economics from the University of Chicago in 2001, preparing him for financial leadership.

Kelley’s years at the University of Chicago also brought a defining personal chapter. During that period, he met Jill, and the two married in December 2000. They built their family life in Elmhurst, raising Brian and Kevin. Family was at the center of Kelley’s priorities, and he remained closely involved in his sons’ lives. He helped with homework, offered encouragement and supported them through childhood and beyond. His presence was described as steady and loving, with an emphasis on being there when his family needed him.

His commitment to young people extended beyond his own children. Kelley coached his sons’ local sports teams and volunteered with youth leagues on Chicago’s South Side, where he encouraged young athletes to develop character and leadership alongside their skills. Those roles reflected his clear willingness to give time to others. The lessons associated with sports were not limited to competition for Kelley; they also provided opportunities to mentor, encourage confidence and help younger people understand the value of teamwork and responsibility.

Professionally, Kelley established a career as a finance executive and served as a Chief Financial Officer and senior finance leader for Chicago-area companies including Wozniak Industries and creative werks. His work reflected financial expertise and care for people. He was remembered for humor, humility and strong ethics, as well as for maintaining respectful relationships with colleagues. His career and community involvement together reflected a life in which professional achievement and personal connection existed side by side.

Kelley is survived by Jill and their sons, Brian and Kevin, along with extended family and many friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Edward, and his sister, Joanne. A Celebration of Life is scheduled for Saturday, October 3, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Golden Boy Barbecue, 551 S. York Street in Elmhurst. His devotion, humor, love of Notre Dame, time on the water and commitment to young people remain part of his legacy.