It is with heavy hearts that we announce the loss of Kelly James Madden. He was a beloved father, husband, son, brother, and friend, who passed away, at home, on January 18, 2025. Though cancer took his life far too early, Kelly’s vibrant spirit and gentle soul will remain forever part of the many lives he touched.

Born on January 22, 1987 in Concord, New Hampshire, Kelly lit up every room he entered. His hallmark charisma allowed him to befriend and connect with people everywhere he went. It was simply impossible to ignore Kelly’s infectious laughter, gregarious personality, and boundless energy. A 2005 graduate of Concord High School, Kelly played hockey, baseball, and football, while excelling academically and thriving socially. He graduated from Williams College in 2009. At Williams, he played football and rugby, and had the chance to study abroad in his beloved Ireland. He then obtained a Master’s degree in Counseling and Sports Psychology at Boston University. Kelly went on to build a career developing leaders and supporting talent at Wayfair and Toast. It was during his time at Wayfair, on a Monday in the snack room, that Kelly met the love of his life, Madeline (O’Neil) Madden.

Kelly lived his life with zeal; he approached both the simple and extraordinary with an unrelenting curiosity and thirst for knowledge. Whether Kelly was passionately cheering for the Bruins, losing himself in the pages of an epic fantasy book, jamming to Bruce Springsteen, or nurturing his many plants, Kelly put his whole heart into whatever he did. He was a loyal and dependable friend; the type who showed up without hesitation in moments of need. Perhaps his greatest gift, though, was the ability to make those he loved smile while helping to shoulder whatever burden they might be carrying. Kelly lived by the words of the inimitable Jimmy Buffet: If we couldn’t laugh, we would all go insane.

Kelly’s life clicked into place in 2023 when he became a devoted father to Everett. He cherished every moment with his son, creating memories filled with laughter, adventure, and love that will give Everett the foundation to be a good, kind person.

Kelly is survived by his loving wife, Madeline; his adored son, Everett; his parents, Jerome and Susan Madden; his siblings, Kevin and Emily Madden, Kristen and Greg Lauze; and their children Teddy and Henry (Madden) and Anna and Ben (Lauze).

Private services will be held on January 31 in Topsfield. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Everett’s education fund, honoring Kelly’s belief that one should never stop learning. https://everloved.com/life-of…

Rest in peace, Kelly. You were a bright light in this world, and we were so lucky to know you, even if it was for too short a time. Sláinte