John C. Kiley

Deputy Chief of Operations in Central Park

Born in Manhattan on November 18th, 1942, John C. Kiley-Jack, as he was affectionately known-passed away on the morning of Saturday, November 21, 2020.

At eight months old, Jack came to Staten Island, where he would live for the remainder of his life-in Jack's words, "a fortunate life." Jack's parents, Betty (née O'Connor) and Gerry Kiley raised him in Westerleigh, where he attended P.S. 30 and Port Richmond High School. In his last year of high school, Jack met and fell in love with his future wife, Alberta (née Yannone). Jack and Alberta married in 1962, and the Kileys remained together for 58 years.

Upon graduating high school, Jack attended Farmingdale State College, where he majored in ornamental horticulture and botany. Jack began his career with the New York City Department of Parks assigned to Central Park, where he did a multitude of tasks, enabling him to learn the park intimately. Jack finally reached his goal of becoming Principal Park Supervisor for Central Park for several years. He was then officially signed an administrator to the Central Park Conservatory, and was sworn in by Mayor Koch as the First Deputy Chief of Operation of all Manhattan Parks. Jack retired after 33 years as Deputy Chief of Operations in Central Park and Staten Island.

Jack was a great history buff. A voracious reader, he could often be found in bookstores for hours on end. Jack was especially fond of biographies of assorted awe-inspiring historical figures, which offered exciting and insightful windows into the past. But Jack not only read about but lived history; he was a lover of overseas travel, journeying to landmarks of great historical significance, and immersing himself in other cultures.

Jack was also an engaged citizen, writing to U. S. presidents for generations, priding himself on his letters residing in their respective libraries. While a citizen of the world, Jack always felt home here in Staten Island, tending to the expansive garden of his warm house in Westerleigh, and always lending a horticultural hand to neighbors in need.

Jack had his 78th birthday three days before his passing. He leaves behind his wife Alberta and their two children, Jill and David. "The marriage we shared has given us many blessings," reflects Alberta, "most importantly, our children Jill and David, who brought us much happiness, and both of whom we are very proud. But Jack's love for our pets-Tye, Dazy, and Pinky-was no less unending. Jack will be sorely missed by all of us."

Call today, Tuesday, Nov. 24, from 3 to 7 p.m., at Casey Funeral Home. Mass is 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at Holy Family.

Casey Funeral Home

350 Slosson Ave.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.caseyfuneralhome.com for the Kiley family.