Jack William Kearney

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, In lieu of flowers, 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). Donations may be made to:
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.
Jack's life will be 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.austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com

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