Search by Name

Add a Memory

Send Flowers

Make a Donation

Share Obituary

Keith Donnelly Obituary

Donnelly, Keith
22, of Phoenix passed away on December 29, 2012. Keith attended Hi-Star Center for 13 years then transitioned into the Next Step Program where he was given the opportunity to work at KMart. Survived by parents Stacy & Jerry, sister Ashley. A Memorial will take place on Tuesday, January 15th at 5:00pm at Scottsdale Bible Church, 7601 E. Shea Blvd. Scottsdale, 85260. Keith touched the lives and hearts of every person he met with his gentle kind and loving spirit. He was a precious angel who taught us the true meaning of love. He was simply beautiful. Keith gave "presents" every day to friends or complete strangers. Each present was unique and carefully wrapped. He would always say "thank you" to the person receiving his free gift. Though our hearts are broken, we rejoice in knowing Keith is finally at peace and home with his Heavenly Father. We are comforted by God's promise that we will see him again. In memory of Keith's giving spirit we would be honored if you could bring a new, unwrapped toy to the service. The toys will then be given to Phoenix Children's Hospital and Hospice.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Arizona Republic on Jan. 15, 2013.

Memories and Condolences
for Keith Donnelly

48 Entries

Joseph Burrola

August 11, 2013

Keith you ARE the best person that I have ever known and I wasnt able to tell you that in person. I am so happy that you are resting in the Hands of God and no longer having to suffer being apart of this world. You have changed my life so much even though I have only known you for only a few months. :) thankyou so much for the presents and I will keep them forever.

Ed and Fran Elliott

June 3, 2013

To our friends, the Donnelly Family,

Our hearts go out to you - Keith was a special spirit who touched our lives as well as all of those around him, and we believe he is Still a special spirit.

Your family is an amazing example of strength and love and we will always admire you all.

Please accept our deepest condolences and our love.

Ed and Fran Elliott
and The Hairy Angel Foundation, Inc.

Devin Fetterhoff

May 21, 2013

Miss you.

Kayla Spottsville

February 24, 2013

Keith was a such a sweetheart. He was one of the most kindhearded people that we've ever met. When I heard about his passing, I was completely shocked. Every morning, when we got on the bus, Keith would stand up and give us a hug. He was kind twoards others and I've never seen him sad. He was always a happy boy. I've known Keith since I was like five or six years old. To the Donnelly family, we are keeping our prayers for you guys and your family. I love you all. We love you Keith and we miss you terribly. RIP my friend.

Devin Fetterhoff

February 12, 2013

Miss you.

Joanne Greenbaum

February 11, 2013

I have taken some time to write in this guestbook for a number of reasons. Probably first and foremost would be the reality that Keith is no longer here but watching over us from up above. I think of Keith and his family and my eyes well up. It's difficut to go visit the home and not see Keith...I can't imagine how Stac, Jer and Ash feel. See, we don't only miss his precious presents, but we so miss his angelic presence. That being said, I still feel him. Those we love are always with us. There aren't any adequate words to describe what Keith meant to me and what his beautiful family means to me. I feel blessed to have been loved by Keith and blessed to be loved by the Donnellys. Their hearts and souls epitomizes the essence of family, of love, of inspiration, of hope and of gratitude. I am a better person to be graced with their friendship.

February 10, 2013

To the Loving Donnelly Family,
We want you to know how very inspired we are by each of you. Keith in his loving and giving ways, even back to when you first became our neighbors and Keith as a little boy "gave us" action figures, cd's and dvd's and many varied toys. He loved to come to our yard sales and purchase several things, always quietly returning those that were not "gift worth". His smile was so special to see. Ashley, your sweet protective and fun nature was just what made you two so great together. What a beautiful bond. Staci and Jerry, the way you are raising your family with wonderful values is a great model for others.
Keith will be missed by so many, as was evident at his touching and emotional service. We know that your hearts have such an enormous hole in them left only to be filled up by many beautiful and treasured moments and memories of a young man taken too soon, but who gave to others in a few years what many could only wish to do in a lifetime, You all are in our prayers that God bless and watch over you as He already is with Keith.
Julie and Marty

Amanda Yant (Simmons)

February 7, 2013

Sweet Donnelly family,
You are all in my thoughts and prayers. It was such a joy to see all the wonderful pictures at the memorial service. Keith was the happiest boy with an amazing smile.
The other night I had dinner with some of my friends from nursing school, one of them happened to ask about Keith and I told them of his passing. We all smiled and laughed as we remembered when Keith would sneak "presents" into my backpack and I would not know they were there until I reached into my bag in class.
Love you all!!!

Leonard and Sarah

February 2, 2013

Keith was a very special kid. He warmed our hearts every time we met him. That is definately not true of most people these days. We can say for sure that his soul is in a better place. The joy that Keith gave us is not replaceable. We are praying for the Donnelly family, that the Lord will give them strength.
Leonard and Sarah

Jordan Au

February 1, 2013

It didn't take long after meeting Christina and her family, to hear all about what a wonderful and inspiring person Keith was. And when I first met Keith and the Donnelys last summer, I could easily see how his personality shines to all people. Meeting Keith has been truly life-changing for me and I have been so inspired by his story. I will always remember him as a true legend and one cool dude!

Annette

February 1, 2013

I am sorry to hear about Keith. He always shared his action figures with me when you brought your taxes in. He just radiated the room. I smile just thinking about him. You all are in my prayers. Take care.

Ruth Canavan

January 31, 2013

The first time we came to the Donnelly home, after meeting everyone, Jerry said "My boy brings people joy!" And clearly, Keith did. Though he hardly knew us, he very quickly "sized" us up, and gave us gifts, things that he treasured, but so willingly shared with others. I can still remember him singing songs with Christina that he had learned in the music therapy session that she went to with him that day, and how happy he was. One day when we came over, I had my hair braided, and Keith quickly went and found his Jasmine doll, wrapped her up and gave her to me. Guess I reminded him of her! Keith touched so many lives in all the most loving ways, and because of the love he had from his parents and sister, he flourished, and went on to share that love with everyone he knew. We are all so blessed to have known Keith, and to know your beautiful family.

Pamela Schmidt

January 31, 2013

To Jerry, Stacy and Ashley. I am sorry it has taken me so long to write on here. I still can't believe Keithy is gone. You all know how special of a relationship Keith and I had. We could hang for hours just doing nothing and still always have a great time. Just the way Keith and I looked at each other, we always knew what each other was thinking. We had such a special bond. Keith was my very own body guard, like I shared at the memorial service. Keith always had my back and was always looking over my shoulder to make sure I was ok. One of my favorite qualities of Keith was he always wanted to make everyone else around him happy and feel satisfied. Once i made him a sandwich. Of course I didn't make it the right way but keith kept taking bites trying to prove to me that he liked it. Next thinking I know he is over the trashcan spitting the food out, but still trying to hide it and show that he liked the sandwich. It was so cute and innocent. He was just trying to make me happy. Keith had the most genuine spirit and the ability to make everyone around him have a smile on their face, no matter how bad their world was or problems they had going on, when you were in Keith's presence those things seemed to not matter. I will always cherish all the memories and times I spent with him and your entire Donnelly family. His name and kindness will never be forgotten. In his honor, I will attempt to everyday live by Keith's terms, be fine and be happy. I know that is what he will want. I am so thankful that I was able to have him be such a significant part of my life for so many years. I love you Keithy and Donnelly family.

Nancy Tomback

January 31, 2013

Dearest Stacey, Jerry, Ashley and precious Keith watching over all of us in heaven, How lucky I was to have known Keith for the short time I did. I will never forget his radiant smile, his love of all mankind, his kisses, his many scraps of paper tied up for me like the heartfelt, generous gift that it was. I will never forget the unconditional love of this family through the hardest times imaginable. I will never forget the outpouring of love at Keith's memorial service; it changed my life forever. In my entire life I have never seen a young man, in his 22 short years, have such an impact on so many people in this world. Most people live a lifetime and don't affect change, and one's heart like precious Keith did - you are one of G_d's angels; I know how much we miss you on earth; my prayers are with your family, but I also know that the heavens are welcoming you with open arms. All my love and friendship forever, Nancy

Susan Sorgen

January 30, 2013

To My Donnelly Family,

I know all of us miss Keith so much and will always keep his love and his sweet smile in our hearts.

I think back upon one of the Hi-Star dances when I tapped him on the shoulder and asked him if I could "cut in" on his dance with Lizzy ...he smiled..kissed me on the head and continued to dance with Lizzy!

Thank you for being in my life Keith!

Vi Berger

January 30, 2013

KEITH REMEMBERED
By Violette Berger

Author, Boyd Bailey, writes: “God is a giver (Deuteronomy 26:1). He gave His only son (John 3:16). He gives daily bread (Proverbs 30:8). He gives eternal life (John 10:28).” As I read this today, I thought about Keith—and the gift God gave to his family and to the world. This gift---this child of His---also became a giver. He blessed everyone with his “presents,” both friend and stranger alike, and with his exhortation to “Smile! Be Happy!” He was a light in this world for 22 years, but now dwells in the glory of God's radiance forever.

January 30, 2013

I have many wonderful memories of Keith at Hi-Star, in my classroom and at his house when I used to babysit for him and Ashley. One funny memory I have is of Stacey telling me that they found one of my missing schedule signs. They fished it out of the toilet at home! Oh well, I'll make a new one I said. We always had fun swimming in the pool and running around the house with Ashley and Penny. After Keith graduated Hi-Star, he always remembered to come say hi to me when visiting and give me one of his hugs that he is famous for!

My thoughts and prayers are with you now and always. Love to Jerry, Stacey and Ashley!
Suzanne Hegarty

Scott Ziff

January 30, 2013

Keith was a human version of a big Teddy Bear. Always had hugs and unconditional love for everyone. There are so many incredible memories that I know my family will cherish and NEVER forget. Keith touched everybody he met in such a positive way. He was so focused and determined to bring happiness and love to his family, and that he did!! Keith,I am so glad to know you and and overwhelmingly proud of the courage you showed. You have set a wonderful example of what a true Mensch is. My thought and prayers are with you forever. With Love. Scott

Bridget Otterman

January 30, 2013

Dear Stacy, Jerry and Ashley,
I am so very sorry for your loss. Keith was a very loving, wonderful young man who touched the hearts of everyone he met. His beautiful smile, his kind and gentle spirit will be remembered by all. The love you share as a family is a beautiful gift and Keith was a wonderful part of your wonderful family. Thank you for sharing him with us! May you find peace and comfort in all the special memories of Keith. May God bless you and give strength at this very difficult time.
With love and prayers,
~Bridget~

Christina Baker

January 30, 2013

Keith is always going to be the angel of my life. He taught me so many valuable lessons throughout my childhood, so much of who I am was made through him and his kindness. My most precious moments of my childhood are with Keith, singing to The Little Mermaid, jumping into the pool as we sung at the top of our lungs, the countless dances Ashley and I would video with Keith always dancing way better than us in the middle! When I had to move to England at 13 years old, everybody I met in the UK soon found out about Keith. Keith is a huge part of me I will always share with people because he taught me more than he could ever know. I've always said, Keith's two goals in life were firstly, to be happy and secondly, to make everyone else around him happy. He is the most gentle, loving, selfless person I know I will ever meet and I so look forward to seeing him do the 'Thumper dance' again one day soon in heaven. I truly believe Keith is an angel of God and I always always will. He was on this Earth for one purpose, to teach us all how we should live, because no one knew this better than Keith Donnelly. Love you always Stacy, Jerry and Ashley x

January 30, 2013

Olly and I looked forward to seeing Kethy and bringing him new Barney toys that he loved so much. We appreciated the wonderful, tape wrapped gifts he gave with such pride and joy. We loved seeing Barney live with all of you and I even got a kiss on the head while we were there. What a loving, giving, gentle boy who will be missed greatly. His smile could light up any room-and we were so blessed to call him "friend." You are always in our thoughts and prayers-sending much love to you, and our special guest in Heaven. Love, Jenn & Olly

January 29, 2013

Keith was such a kind and loving boy. He was a direct reflection of his wonderful family who always loved him unconditionally. His gentle and giving heart was and always will be an inspiration to everyone who was blessed enough to know him. I will always remember Puddin's sweet smile filled with absolute joy. My thoughts and prayers are with you always.
With much love,
Erica Arzaga

Judy and Mark Tabin

January 29, 2013

It's been too long since we have had a get-together. After listening to all the wonderful stories and reading wonderful messages, our hearts are even sadder that we didn't get to know Keith better in his young adult life. It is truly our loss. I've noticed lately, that my eyes are taking longer to adjust back when I look into the sky. I think it's because your little angel has made is so much brighter.

Jules and Renee Rossman

January 29, 2013

Dear Remarkable Donnelly Family,
We adore you and Keith who is like the Energizer Bunny,who keeps on Giving!
He will give us memories for a lifetime.
And Uncle Irv who was a Giver loved all the Donnelly's and was delighted at the many gifts Keith gave him.
Smile remembering the happy times with Keith, especially in that pizza hat!
All our love and admiration,
Jules and Renee (rossman)

January 29, 2013

I will forever remember Keith and the time I spent with him at the Hi-Star Center. He was always happy and content and gentle. We had a special bond that I am so grateful for. He is from a loving, loving family...My memories will live on...Trish Sena Dwyer

Lyn Haberstock

January 29, 2013

One year we drove Ashley to school. Nearly every morning Keith would be waiting to come out and hand deliver one of his creative presents. He was a beautiful reminder that every day God offers me the gift of His love unconditionally.

Donna White

January 29, 2013

I am so sorry for the loss of your sweet boy. His light will shine forever and we will always remember his smiling face and happy heart. Love to you all as you go through this difficult time. love, Donna White

Kevin Ladin

January 29, 2013

Although I only met Keithy a few times, I can honestly say he was a joy to be around and one of the sweetest, kindest people I have ever met. I feel honored to have had the opportunity to spend time with him. My thoughts and prayers are with the Donnelly family. May Keithy rest in peace.

Michelle Nettle

January 29, 2013

I had the blessing of being Keith's music therapist for the past 7 years. I loved Keith SO very much and I will always remember his enthusiasm for life, him singing "Old MacDonald" at the top of his lungs and of course the hundreds of unique and wonderfully creative "presents" I received from him over the years. But most of all, I will remember his hugs and him kissing the top of my head. He was the best "hugger" and sweetest boy I have ever known.

Susan Guzman

January 29, 2013

We are born into this world with unconditional love in our hearts. Society, along the way, conditions us to be distrustful and inclusive. Keith did not buy into that path. I was stunned to receive a present, his love and a kiss on my head the very first time I met Keith. Wow, what a lesson on love and non-judgment! Stacy, Jerry and Ashley showed Keith how beautiful the world could be in spite of our every day challenges. Keith lived this love in everything that he did.

January 29, 2013

I always remember Keith's excitement when I would see or interact with him. He would love to tell me about the latest event or item he was holding. I will cherish the love I saw between him and Ashley. They would often show affection for one another whether in words or hugs. They had a special bond. Now, as a father myself, seeing that affection between my sons warms my heart and shows me how truly special and lasting is the bond between siblings. I thank the Lord that I came to know the Donnellys and see the love between this family. It has been such an encouragement to me. I pray that the Lord would give you His grace as you continue to learn to trust and rely upon Him.

K. Navarrette

Ali Greenbaum

January 29, 2013

I remember the first time I met Keithy, it was about 6.5 years ago and the Donnelly's came over for dinner. The instant I met him, I loved him...his warmth in his eyes was just so genuine, so real. After Keithy demolished about 3 plates of food (he was such a good eater), he entertained us with Barney songs and showed me how to sign the alphabet. I always enjoyed going over to the Donnelly's and getting a wonderful welcome from Keithy, but leaving (although it was always hard to do, because who doesnt like spending as much time as possible with this family?) brightened my day, my week. About 95% (sometimes I had to compete with my mom for the present :) )of the time I recieved a present from Keithy, and 100% of the time a kiss on the head. Keithy possessed a type of kindness that I have never seen in anyone else throughout my life thus far. I feel blessed to have known him and his sweetness will live in my heart forever. Love you xoxo

Sally Sawyer

January 28, 2013

Dearest Donnelly family,It broke my heart when I learned of Keith's passing as he was such a Joy to be around and always made me smile. I'm thankful for Ryan for introducing me to your family and for all the love you've shown to us and all the fun memories. I remember when Keith gave me my first gift and how special it made me feel :-) I have a Minnie Mouse he gave me recently and will always feel his Happy Spirit when I look at her now, Keith was blessed with a Wonderful loving sister Ashley, and Wonderful loving parents. Thank you all for letting me get to know your Truly Wonderful Son and family. I Do Believe in Angels and I know they're watching over you now while they're holding Keith for you.
You're always in my prayers, Love Sally

January 28, 2013

Donnelly Family Our thought prayers are with you through this difficult time. I truly just around the corner if you need someone. Maria DeNicola

Rebecca David

January 26, 2013

Words cannot express my bewilderment in receiving news of Keith's passing. He was not just an old friend, he was a true friend. I always loved attending my Hi-Star classmates' birthday parties because I was sure that Keith would be there with his infectious smile and spirit. I also loved that, whenever he saw me, or when I spoke to him, he would blush and giggle...he had the biggest crush on me (tee-hee). All joking aside, I loved when Keith said Hi to me; it always lit up my day. Please accept, on behalf of myself and my family, our utmost condolences, and take comfort in knowing that this light and caring soul is finally at peace.

Suzy Richardson

January 20, 2013

We had the honor and pleasure of our sweet boy for about 16 years. Keithy was such a sensitive, loving, happy, generous caring person. His big eyes, special kisses and hugs always let one know just what he felt. I will always remeber the special relationship he shared with Stephi and Lizzy but most of all the very special love that Keithy and Lizzy shared. Everytime I look at Lizzy I see and feel her sweet boy with her. Keithy was such a bright light that will shine forever! We love you, Lizzy, Stephi, Jessie, Suzy and Arthur.

Michelle Ziff

January 17, 2013

Keithy's memorial was so beautiful and a perfect tribute to him. It blows my mind to think that a 22 year old boy, who couldn't even share his thoughts or feelings, could leave such an incredible legacy that has changed the lives of so many. Keith was an angel who will live in our hearts forever. His magical spirit will make us smile every time we think of him and his determination to make everyone happy. We love and miss you Keithy. Michelle, Scott, Garrett, Jordan and Adam.

Nicole Croci

January 16, 2013

So sorry to hear about the passing of Keith. My prayers are with you and your family as you work through this difficult time.

felicia mullany

January 16, 2013

I'll miss u Keith u been great friend I wish u were here.

The Goldberg Family

January 16, 2013

The service was a beautiful tribute to Keithy. We will all miss him very much. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this most difficult time. Sending Hugs!

Roz, Seth, ,Jeremy and Jacob

Kristin Hardy

January 16, 2013

I feel so privileged to have known Keith the last year of his life and to have gotten to experience his warm hugs, adorable gifts, and sweet smile. I remember the day when I finally got that kiss on the top of my head, and I was so excited! He gave us some sweet gifts that my 2 year old daughter plays with almost everyday, so the reminder of Keith's spirit will always be in my home. I will miss him.

January 16, 2013

Our sincere condolences Stacy, Jerry and Ashley! Praying the good Lord brings you the peace and comfort needed during this difficult time!
All our love,
Lynn and Jessica Lynn

Mari Jo Cardenas

January 16, 2013

Keith was unique. He never wanted more than a smile from anyone. Giving things mattered so much more to Keith than getting things. He may have been the student at Next Step, but what he taught me, I will never forget.

Blair & Pat Snyder

January 15, 2013

Our condolences. I had the pleasure the pleasure of meeting Keith, Stacy, Jerry, and Ashley via a mutual friend that Keith adored. He was a wonder person.

Kristen, Dr. Magalnick's MA

January 15, 2013

To the Donnelly family, I'm sad to hear of Keith's passing. My thought and prayers are with your family.

January 15, 2013

My condolence to the family. Allow his fond memories comfort your heart, and the knowledge that all our loved ones will rise again to a peaceful new world.

Harrell

January 15, 2013

Dear Family - You have my deepest heartfelt condolences. May God be with you to bring you comfort and peace through this difficult time. He promises at Isaiah 61:2, 65:8, to actually do away with death forever; ... will certainly wipe the tears from all faces.

Stephanie McWhorter

January 15, 2013

Words can't express how sorry I am to hear of your great loss. I worked at Hi-Star 2005-2010. I never had the opportunity to work with Keith directly. I worked in Levels 1/2 and 3. I did speak with him in passing and felt his kind spirit. I also heard many loving stories about him from Erica. She also shared that he was her "Puddin" when he was in Primary. May the love and support of your family and friends bring you all comfort during this difficult time.

Showing 1 - 48 of 48 results