Keith Perrish McKellar, age 34, of Brooklyn, NY, passed away on September 7, 2024.

Keith was born on September 7, 1990, to Josephine Ann McKellar. He grew up in Newtown, Pennsylvania, with his mother and his older sister, Christina Ann McKellar.

Keith graduated from Council Rock High School in 2008, taking his first step toward academic adventure. He started his academic career at the University of Pittsburgh, where he majored in biology and English for two years. His focus later shifted, and he embarked on a new path at Colorado State University, where he worked as a junior web developer. While in Colorado, he not only discovered his career calling but also formed a close circle of lifelong friends who supported him when he made the exciting leap to New York City.

Keith began his tech career at The New York Times as a software engineer, pioneering an eight-year journey in the field. In the fall of 2021, he began studying computer science at Columbia University.

In 2019, Keith became the beloved uncle and godfather to Anna Christina and Asha Nicolette Janoušek. He proudly visited them each year, always bringing the latest children’s books or cutting-edge technology. His affectionate nickname, “Cookie,” became a term of endearment that will forever hold a special place in the hearts of his nieces.

Keith spent his free time cooking restaurant-style meals with a million exotic ingredients, picnicking in the park with friends, and traveling the world. His keen desire to learn about everything—from animals, especially whales, to the mysteries of the natural world—was matched only by his boundless curiosity and gift for words. He was always ready to belt out and quote mantras from the DIVAS. Keith brought joy to everyone he encountered with his sharp, forthright humor and deep empathy for others.

Keith is survived by his mother, Josephine Ann McKellar; his sister, Christina Ann McKellar, and her husband, Jiři Janoušek; and his nieces, Asha Nicolette Janoušek and Anna Christina Janoušek.

Private services will be held at Rosticceria Evelina on October 3rd, 2024. In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations through Ever Loved. All contributions will be used to cover funeral expenses and to support the WDC, a reputable charity dedicated to protecting whales and dolphins—an effort that was close to Keith’s heart.

You'll always stay here in my heart

No matter what the words may say

You will stay here in my heart

No matter what the day

You will stay here in my heart

No matter what they say

No matter what they compose or do

No matter what the drugs may do

or songs may do or people may do

Or machines will do to you

I will always have my feelings

Nothing can destroy them

— Nina Simone

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