Eric C. Kelley, 50, of Morrisville, Vermont, passed away on February 2, 2026, at The Manor, surrounded by loved ones, after an eight-year battle with an aggressive form of Parkinson’s disease—a fight he met with grit, stubbornness, and a sense of humor that never fully surrendered.

Born in New Britain, Connecticut, on November 16, 1975, Eric’s early life was marked by adversity. Despite receiving little support from the family that brought him into this world, he built a life defined by perseverance, independence, and generosity of spirit. Entirely self-made, Eric forged his own path through determination, talent, and an unwavering commitment to those he loved. He was a devoted father, a loyal friend, and a genuinely kind presence to all who knew him.

Eric found joy and creativity in many pursuits. He loved video gaming, culinary arts, and basketball, and he brought enthusiasm and curiosity to everything he did. He was also fluent in Polish and Puerto Rican, a testament to his love of language, culture, and connection.

Professionally, Eric worked as a chef in Stowe, Vermont, where he shared his skill and passion in numerous well-known kitchens, including Top Notch, Trapps Family Lodge, The Shed, Picasso’s, Grazi’s, La Trattoria, and The Whip Bar & Grill. His work ethic, creativity, and reliability earned him respect throughout the local culinary community.

Eric’s greatest accomplishment, however, was raising his two daughters, Caitlind Kelley and Brailee Kelley of Orleans, Vermont. Being their father was the defining role of his life. He was immensely proud of Caitlind for being so strong and independent, and he admired Brailee for being imaginative. He spoke often of their intelligence, their humor, and the women they were becoming. His love for his daughters was constant, fierce, and unconditional, and it shaped every choice he made. He took particular pride in the bond they shared with one another, seeing them as a team who supported, protected, and understood each other in a way that brought him deep comfort.

Eric is also survived by his best friend, Esther Hasskamp of Northfield, Vermont, whose sharp wit and shared sarcasm matched his own. Their friendship was built on humor, honesty, and the rare comfort of being able to say exactly what they meant. He also grew deeply attached to Esther’s Great Dane, Priscilla, who became a constant and beloved companion during his final months.

Eric was preceded in death by two dogs with whom he shared a deep and special bond: his beloved Boxer, Tia, and a cantankerous Great Dane named Jasper-Johns.

Eric and his family extend heartfelt gratitude to the staff at The Manor and Copley Hospital for the compassion and care they provided. At The Manor, Eric would like to give an extra shout out to Ken, Courtney, Emily, Kiara, Sergio, Deon, Dawn, Nadia, Stephanie, and Laurie. At The Manor, we would also like to thank Chelsea, Sheri, Melinda, and Billie Jo. At Copley Hospital, he would like to offer special thanks to his nurses, Alex Noyes and Charlie Mayhew and LNA’s Mariah and Shelby, for going above and beyond. Eric also wished to extend particular gratitude to Chip Powell and Justin Sluka for their tireless dedication and advocacy—and to Sushi Yoshi in Stowe for gifting him an unforgettable sushi feast after learning it would be his last.

Eric was cremated in Manchester, New Hampshire on February 11th, witnessed by those closest to him, by The Cremation Society of New Hampshire. In a reflection of his lifelong love of gaming, he thoughtfully selected several urns that honor that passion. A Celebration of Life will be held at The Wing Center in Morrisville, VT on Sunday, March 1st from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Eric’s life is a testament to resilience, love, and the quiet strength of a man who built everything he had—and gave his very best to his children. In lieu of flowers, please direct contributions to Caitlind Kelley or donate to the Eric Kelley Fundraiser through the GoFundMe organized by Alexandra Noyes.