Kelly A Derise

Kelly “Chic” Derise, 54, of Middletown, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at Riverview Medical Center surrounded by her loving family. Kelly was born on October 8, 1970, in Red Bank, New Jersey. Kelly grew up in Keansburg where she met her soul mate and the love of her life Frank, before settling in Middletown where they raised their 5 children together. Kelly’s story was one of love—steadfast, enduring, and inspiring. She and her beloved husband Frank of 34 years grew up together, their lives intertwined from the very start, two souls destined to walk this journey side by side for 45 years. Their love story began in the most innocent and beautiful of ways, as babies being pushed in their strollers. Even then, they seemed to recognize something special in one another, reacting to each other in a way that made those around them smile. That moment was a glimpse into a future neither of them could have imagined, a friendship that blossomed into a love that withstood the test of time. Through every season of life, they stood side by side, hand in hand, building a life filled with laughter, love, and unwavering devotion. Their love story was one that many only dream of, one that never wavered, never faltered, and remained true until the very end. Kelly is predeceased by her parents, William and Virginia Parker, her mother and father-in-law Frank and Lucille Derise, and her brother Salvatore Parker. Kelly is survived by her loving and devoted husband Frank, her children Stephanie and Stevie Reed, Alexandra and Mike Pipicz, Frank and Erica Derise, Nicole Derise, Jordan and Mikey Ferm, and her nine grandchildren, Jonny, Parker, Rylie, Willa, Isla, Makenna, Lily, Frankie, and Luca; her sisters and brothers Marlene and Pete Vallone, and Carlene and Francis Farrell, Billy Parker Jr., Donna and Pat Pellizzi, Jimmy and Gail Styrdio, Lucille Boehm, Judy and Joe Nelan, Danny Strydio, and many nieces, nephews, and countless friends. Kelly was a light in every room, a melody in every moment, and a laugh when you needed it most. Her joy was infectious—whether singing at the top of her lungs, dancing without a care, or simply making someone smile on a tough day. She had a way of making life feel brighter, reminding us all to cherish every moment. She found happiness in the little things. Especially in discovering new places, but no place held her heart quite like Disney World. Kelly found pure joy in the magic, wonder, and endless possibilities that Disney brought to life. It was her happy place, where dreams came true, and every visit was an adventure filled with laughter, and love with her family. Above all, Kelly was caring and kind, always ready with an encouraging word, a warm embrace, or a listening ear. She loved deeply and wholeheartedly, making everyone around her feel special and valued. Her love knew no bounds, and her uplifting spirit will remain a guiding force for those fortunate enough to have known her. Despite her own battles, her faith never faltered, she never hesitated to be a shoulder to lean on, a voice of encouragement, and remind us that hope and love always prevail. Her resilience was inspiring, her kindness immeasurable, and her heart limitless. She taught us that even in hardship, there is joy to be found, love to be given, and reasons to keep going. Though our hearts ache in her absence, we take comfort in knowing that she lived fully, laughed often, and loved unconditionally. Her legacy will live on in the stories we tell, the songs we sing, and the joy we choose to embrace in her honor.

Kelly A Derise

October 8, 1970 - March 15, 2025