Jack Kearney

2004 - 2025

Jack Kearney

Born: April 8, 2004 | Died: September 26, 2025

Jack was a gentle soul - quick to smile, always ready to laugh and deeply loyal to the people he loved. Jack was born April 8, 2004 in Boston MA and always so fondly remembered his first five years home in Wellesley MA. He grew up in Stowe VT's caring community, he cherished days spent on local trails,in the river and swimming holes most often with his beloved dog, Hugo, by his side.

Jack found joy in the easy camaraderie and innocent adventures of his tight crew formed in elementary school and sustained to this day. Known for his sweet nature and curious mind, Jack's enthusiasm and wit shone through in every conversation.

After Jack's diagnosis with ALD, he faced profound medical challenges with quiet courage and grace – yet he never let them define him. He continued to find happiness in life's simple pleasures, whether exploring new places on his travels or gathering for thoughtful discussions and new experiences. A true seeker of knowledge and meaning, Jack often quoted Anthony Bourdain "Travel is not a reward for working, it's education for living". He lived that belief fully – seeing travel not as a reward but as a way to understand the world and his place in it.

Jack's faith in God and his deep connection to nature shone through his creative writing and poetry. He believed in slowing down, listening closely to life, and staying true to himself. His family fondly called him "the leisure king", a title he wore with a grin – for Jack understood the art of being present or simply enjoying the moment. There was a peacefulness about him, an inner beauty that drew people in. To know Jack was to experience genuine kindness and authenticity. Jack was unapologetically himself and he touched everyone he met.

At the time of Jack's passing, he had made Boone, NC his home enrolled at Appalachian State University. Arriving at App State decidedly Undecided in choosing a major, Religious Studies resonated and he had confidently decided on declaring his major. He had reached his stride exploring all that the Appalachian community and the University had to teach him, a member of the Religious Studies Club, the Presbyterian Episcopal Campus Ministry and the Gospel Choir embracing his love of music and faith. He believed deeply in balance, seeing life as a whole picture and finding his place in the beauty of this earth.

Jack shared a special bond with his mother - his best friend, skiing buddy, music festival companion, and greatest champion. Jack and his father, Sean, enjoyed countless concerts and sporting events together,and his older brother Flynn offered him steady support and unwavering strength. Jack is survived by his loving grandmother, Judie Palleschi who not only adored him through her gentle wisdom, but also taught him the true meaning of joy, kindness, and living fully. Jack is also survived by his grandmother Linda Kearney, sustained by her unconditional love, and his grandfather Tim Kearney.

Jack's legacy is left to the field of Adrenoleukodystrophy research through the generous donation of his brain and spinal cord in the hope that his life may help others facing the same struggles. To honor Jack donations may be made to ALD Connect Breakthrough Research Fund, a bold initiative to accelerate discovery and improve the lives of those affected by adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD).

https://aldconnect.org/clinical-trials-and-research/breakthrough-research-fund/

His kindness, laughter, and the warmth he brought to those around him will remain forever in the hearts of those who knew him.

Jacks life was celebrated Oct 7, 2025 at St Luke's Episcopal Church in Boone at 4pm followed by a ceremony at Price Lake. Further celebration upcoming in Cape Cod MA and next Spring near his birthday in Stowe VT, details forthcoming.

Online condolences may be shared at www.austinandbanresfuneralhome.com

Austin and Barnes Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the Kearney family.