Obituary of Neilia Jayne Kelly

Neilia Kelly (1955–2026)

Neilia Kelly, age 70, passed away peacefully on February 14th 2026, surrounded by the warmth and love of the family she spent her life building.

Predeceased by her parents, Chester and Neilia Phillips.

Neilia approached life with a grace and dedication that inspired everyone who knew her. Above all, Neilia was a woman defined by her devotion to her family. She is survived by her beloved husband, Sean, with whom she shared a lifetime of partnership and cherished memories.

After being born in Brooklyn, NY and growing up in Massapequa, Long Island. Neilia attended St. Lawrence University in Canton, NY where she met her husband, Sean.  

Her legacy of love continues through her three daughters and their families; Megan (Marschall) Berkes, Colleen (Greg Barbeau) Kelly, and Shauna (Andy) Birtch. Her spirit lives on in her cherished grandkids: Connor and Margaret; Catherine and Alexandra; and Madison and Mackenzie.  Also survived by her brother, Chester (Laura) Phillips.  And many nieces, nephews and friends.

Neilia was a very proud “Gammy” to her six grandchildren, who she absolutely adored. She was never happier than when she was sitting at the kitchen table covered in glitter and glue for a craft project or gathered around a board game with them. Gammy never turned down a request for "one more game," and her grandchildren will forever cherish the lessons of creativity, patience, and playfulness she taught them.

Neilia was defined by an incredible intelligence and a sharp, inquisitive mind that she turned toward the betterment of her community. A cornerstone of local advocacy, she devoted her entire career with over 30 years of service with  Monroe County, where she was a tireless champion for the mental health and social services community.   After retiring from the county, she worked many years for Coordinated Care Services, Inc. primarily in Grant Development and Special Projects.  Neilia was a champion grant writer that helped provide funding for many organizations, including those devoted to ending homelessness.

Throughout her career, Neilia navigated complex systemic challenges with a rare blend of brilliance and empathy. She didn’t just work within the system; she fought to ensure it served the people who needed it most. Whether she was solving complex problems or navigating the needs of the greater Monroe County Community, she did so with a level of brilliance and dedication that earned the respect of all who worked alongside her.

Calling hours will be held at Falvo Funeral Home, 1295 Fairport Nine Mile Point Road, Webster, NY 14580 on Thursday, February 19, 2026 from 4:00pm-7:00pm. A mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at St. Cecelia Church, 2732 Culver Road, Rochester, NY 14622 on Friday, February 20, 2026 at 10am. Burial will be held at White Haven Memorial Park, Pittsford, NY. 

Neilia had a compassionate heart and a deep concern for those in need. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in her memory to Partners Ending Homelessness to help support individuals experiencing homelessness via check (see below) or to the Cancer Support Community at Gilda’s Club Rochester via donation link (Cancer Support Community).
 

Partners Ending Homelessness Address:

Donations can be made by check to:

Partners Ending Homelessness

277 Alexander St. Suite 208-210

Rochester, NY 14607