Kelly's obituary
Kelly Anne Pastore, 33, passed away on August 30, 2025, in Edgewater, Florida. Born on February 27, 1992, in Daytona, Florida, Kelly brought joy and laughter to those around her from the very beginning.
Raised on the beach side of New Smyrna Beach, Kelly’s childhood was filled with sunshine and salt air. She loved building “drip” sandcastles with her dad and sister and spent endless hours in the ocean, embracing her inner mermaid. Her connection to the water reflected both her free spirit and her love of nature. Their home was also a haven for creativity, sparking a lifelong passion for crafting and jewelry making—gifts she delighted in sharing with friends and family.
A Disney enthusiast, Kelly found magic in both the movies and the parks. As the youngest of three sisters, she often wore matching outfits on their many family trips to Walt Disney World. This cherished tradition continued as she became a mother, bringing the same sense of wonder and joy to her daughter, Ellie. Some of Kelly’s happiest memories were made there with Joseph and Joey - whether it was “eating around the world” at Epcot, lounging by the resort pools, or meeting with the characters (especially her beloved Winnie the Pooh). Her warmth always drew people in, and she had a gift for turning strangers into friends wherever she went.
Welcoming Ellie Pastore-Behrens into the world was Kelly’s proudest moment. She embraced motherhood with unwavering devotion, finding immense joy in watching Ellie grow into a talented, smart, fun-loving, and sassy, opinionated redhead. Kelly’s care extended far beyond her own family—she was always the mom with an extra bandage, hand wipe, or kind word for anyone who needed it. She loved bringing smiles to others by handing out her handmade jewelry at the parks and by sharing her thoughtful lessons in parenting with Joseph, who credits her with making him a better father to both Joey and Ellie.
Kelly is survived by her beloved daughter Ellie; her mother, Kim Neeley; her sisters, Kasey Murray and Mary Katherine (Katie) Pastore; her grandmother, Anne Gabriel; her fiancé, Joseph Martin; and future stepson, Joey Martin. She also leaves behind her loyal dog, Bruno, and two cherished cats, Colton and Pepper. Her compassion extended to all animals—whether stopping to help a turtle cross the road or caring for a stray in need.
She was preceded in death by her father, Michael Pastore, and Eddie Behrens, Ellie’s father.
A celebration of Kelly’s life will be held at 3 pm on Saturday, October 4, 2025 at 106 N Peninsula Ave, New Smyrna Beach, FL.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to an animal rescue charity of your choice in her honor. For those who wish to send flowers, sunflowers (her favorite flower) or arrangements in fall colors would be especially meaningful. Flowers can be sent to 34 Sandra Cir, New Smyrna Beach, FL, 32168
May Kelly Anne Pastore’s memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved her. Her spirit and legacy live on most beautifully through Ellie.