Kathaleen Deluca

Kathaleen Ann "Katie" DeLuca (née Kelly), age 59, passed away on April 3, 2025, At Cooper University Hospital in Camden, NJ. Born on March 19, 1966, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Katie lived a life marked by resilience, humor, and unwavering compassion.

Katie was a proud graduate of St. Leo's (Class of 1980) and Saint Hubert's High School for Girls (Class of 1984). She went on to pursue her calling in nursing at the Presbyterian School of Practical Nursing, graduating with the Class of 1991. Her career included working with the Philadelphia Prison System but found its true heart in homecare nursing throughout North Philadelphia. Katie was deeply passionate about her work and known for the exceptional care she gave to her patients-many of whom she treated like family.

Diagnosed with juvenile diabetes at just eight years old, Katie faced lifelong health challenges with unmatched courage and grit. Despite losing both legs and three fingers to complications from the disease, she never let it define her or dampen her spirit. She refused self-pity and often reminded others that there were people facing even greater struggles. Her strength inspired everyone who knew her.

Katie was a familiar sight around Riverton and Palmyra-often seen cruising through town in her wheelchair en route to Ross or heading to get her hair and nails done. Her independence was fierce, but so was the kindness of strangers who helped her during wheelchair malfunctions or when she found herself stranded. Thanks to their generosity, she always made it home safely.

Known for her sharp wit and boundless sarcasm, Katie brought life to every party and laughter to every room. She loved to talk-really talk-and had a unique relationship with everyone she met. Beneath her tough-girl exterior was a heart of gold that beat fiercely for those she cared about. If you were lucky enough to be in Katie's circle, you knew without question that she had your back.

Katie is lovingly remembered by her son Anthony; her brother Tom (Chris); sisters Jennifer (Bruce) and Susann; and six nieces and nephews: Brigit, Caroline, Joseph, Jacob, Jason, and Heather. She now joins her beloved parents Jack and Peg Kelly and nephew Aidan Kelly in eternal peace. We can only imagine that rather than resting in peace, Katie is partying in paradise!

A Celebration of Life will be held on May 9, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Pennsauken Country Club, located at 3800 Haddonfield Road, Pennsauken, New Jersey 08109. All who knew Katie are welcome to come share stories and honor the unforgettable woman who touched so many lives.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Burlington County Animal Shelter at 35 Academy Drive, Westampton Township, NJ 08060. https://burlingtoncountynj.formstack.com/forms/animal_shelter_donations

Katie LOVED animals!

May Kath-A-leen "Katie" Kelly DeLuca's memory bring comfort to all who loved her-and may we carry forward the strength, humor, and love she so freely gave.