Joseph D. Keleher, Jr. Memorial Scholarship Fund

Joseph Keleher led the Freeport Red Devils to 30 consecutive wins as their quarterback from 1958-1959. Ironically, Joe was extremely nearsighted, and did not wear glasses during the games. Receivers would wave their arms dramatically so he could complete passes, but it was the team’s running game including Keleher’s fearless speed at making touchdowns himself that led the Red Devils to two back-to-back undefeated seasons.

Joe also survived a brain abscess at the age of 40, which caused his left arm to become completely paralyzed and his left leg partially paralyzed. In spite of his paralysis, Joseph returned to work as a top-selling agent at Prudential, and even continued to play golf regularly with just one arm. When asked what his golf handicap was, he would joke, “Left arm, left leg”. Joseph’s humor, generosity, positive attitude, and fighting spirit never faded, even as he battled cancer. Joseph passed away on April 14, at the age of 81.

In lieu of flowers we have set up this GoFundMe to establish the Joseph D. Keleher Memorial Scholarship. All proceeds will be donated as a scholarship to Joseph's alma mater, Freeport High School to benefit athlete-scholars. We are also working with the Athletics Department at Freeport High School to have a plaque displayed in Joe's honor, and commemorating the '58-'59 undefeated seasons, to be donated by the immediate family.

Joseph is survived by his high school sweetheart and wife of 61 years, Beatrice; his sister Mary and step sister Joanne; and sons Joseph and James, both teachers. He was blessed with 2 wonderful daughter-in-laws, Linda and Alexandria, 6 loving grandchildren, Krystie, Joseph, Megan, Shane, Emily and Julia, a fantastic family, and great friends. A small memorial service is being held in his honor, and his ashes will be interred at a private ceremony at the National Cemetery as a Veteran of the US Army. He will be forever remembered by his family and friends.