Gentle, sensitive, introspective, inquisitive
Geoffrey was happiest while exploring the outdoors. As a youngster, he immersed himself in the natural world, especially on family vacations to U.S. National Parks, where he rode horses, hiked and kayaked. Closer to home, Geoffrey gardened with his father as a young boy. Geoff’s intellectual curiosity led him to embrace a strong interest in the Civil and Revolutionary wars, visiting significant battle sites such as Gettysburg and Fort Sumter. He was also an avid music fan and listened to rap while cooking healthy meals and completing his workout routine as a teen.
As a youngster, backyard campfires while eating s’mores was a regular occurrence with friends and neighbors. Flashlight tag, paintball competitions, fishing, and snowboarding were all highlights of an active boyhood. Geoffrey spent many years progressing through the Boy Scout ranks, reaching the pinnacle of Eagle Scout in high school. During their annual summer campouts, Geoffrey and his troop earned badges, learned outdoor skills, and enjoyed the camaraderie of fellow scouts. One favorite holiday tradition was eagerly placing decorations throughout every room with care. He especially loved competing with his brother Chris every Easter during their annual egg hunt. His big sister Caitlin offered Geoffrey tender-hearted care in their childhood years.
Geoffrey spent years attempting to fulfill his dream of graduating college. His intellectual capacity was great, but the disease held him in a tight grip. While in college, working in various state-owned parks was where he utilized his landscape skills.
Caring and sensitive, Geoffrey struggled with depression and anxiety in his teen/adult years. The diminished self-confidence which occurred introduced the pathway to self-medication and addiction. This led to a ten-year cycle of endless attempts to achieve sobriety. This vicious cycle created suffering for both Geoffrey and his family.
Geoffrey’s mother endeavored to help her son navigate the dysfunctional recovery system. The disease progressed unhindered to where Geoffrey isolated himself and lost hope. One of the most difficult parts of loving someone with addiction was feeling powerless to help them and the subsequent emotions that caused. Judy says, “It is important to engage in dialog about the disease with those who may not understand the societal stigma it creates.” She engages in grief support groups and coordinates supportive grief events. Volunteering with a local organization that distributes backpacks to people living without permanent housing is an activity that helps open her heart.
Judy stated, “Uninformed people continue to believe that those with addiction are weak, but I believe it takes tremendous courage to endure the pain that this disease inflicts.” Geoffrey consistently expressed his gratitude for the support she offered him. She said, “He always showed me unqualified love and appreciation.” Judy misses his sweet smiles, kind heart, and curious nature.
Geoffrey’s mother, Judy Kelly, provided the information for this narrative.
June 23, 1991 -March 28, 2020-Age 28
Portrait Artist: Elizabeth Jones
Narrative Writer: Victoria Estes
