Matthew William Sullis Kelly, 55, passed away on January 9, 2026, in Charleston, South Carolina.

Born on November 23, 1970, in Hartford, Connecticut, Matt grew up in West Hartford, where his love of sports and the lifelong friendships he cherished began at an early age. He attended Miami University (Ohio), where he played hockey, and later continued his education at the University of Connecticut, where he was a key player on the hockey team and graduated.

Matt eventually made his home in South Carolina, where he raised his family with his former wife, Dana, and built a wide circle of friends. He was incredibly proud of his three children-Kieran, Olivia, and Grace-who were truly his pride and joy. His love for them was constant, and he found his greatest happiness in being their dad.

Matt will be remembered for his zest for life, his ability to make friends wherever he went, and his passion for fishing and sports-especially hockey. He had a gift for bringing people together and loved sharing stories from his past, always with warmth, lots of humor, and heart. An avid animal lover, Matt was rarely seen without a dog by his side.

He found great joy in coaching youth sports, generously sharing his time and experience. Matt also gave back to his community through his service with the Red Cross, assisting victims of Hurricane Helene in 2024.

Matt leaves behind a legacy of strong and lasting friendships, deep pride in his family, and a spirit that will not be forgotten. Like many, he experienced both moments of strength and moments of struggle, but we know he is now at peace. He will be deeply missed.

Matthew is survived by his cherished children, Kieran, Olivia, and Grace Kelly, and his former wife, Dana Kelly. He is also survived by his brother, Tim Kelly (wife Mary); his sisters, Susan Couvillon (late husband Howard), Lisa Fandel (husband Ed), and Nancy Pagliarini (husband Lou); and his many beloved nieces and nephews, including Kiel Couvillon, Ande (Couvillon) Schott, Jolie Couvillon; Kristen (Kelly) Pereria, John Kelly; Reese, Maggie and Kyle Kelly; Zachary Fandel; Jack, Jenna, and Mia Pagliarini; Jake, Luke, and Josie Jensen; and John, Jack and Max Demo.

Matt was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Jack and Betty Kelly as well as his dear brother Robert Kelly.

A remembrance service for the family and close friends will be held on January 24th at the J Henry Stuhr funeral chapel in downtown Charlston. It will begin at 4pm with visitation prior.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made, in Matt's memory, to Charleston Animal Society, http://www.charlestonanimalsociety.org or to BU CTE Center and UNITE Brain Bank, https://www.bu.edu/cte/financial-support/