William “Bill” Owen Keleher, Jr.

William “Bill” Owen Keleher, Jr., 76, of West Palm Beach, Florida, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 20, 2025.

Born in Kansas City, Missouri, on October 25, 1948, Bill lived a life defined by purpose, vision, and unwavering devotion to his family. He graduated from Rockhurst High School and earned a degree in Mathematics from Old Dominion University, where he played basketball on scholarship. A Navy Reservist in the 1970s, Bill was also a passionate musician and played guitar in a college band.

Bill’s remarkable real estate career began in 1970 as a Sales Associate. Fueled by drive, ambition, and a passion for leadership, he rose to become one of the most respected owners and CEOs in the industry of Berkshire Hathaway Home Services New Jersey Properties with 28 offices throughout New Jersey. Bill’s strategic brilliance, relentless work ethic and integrity shaped not only the success of the businesses he built, but the lives and careers of countless professionals who had the privilege of working with him. He retired in 2023 as Founder and Chairman of Berkshire Hathaway Home Services New Jersey Properties, leaving behind more than a thriving enterprise—he left a standard of excellence and a legacy of living the American dream.

Though widely recognized as a real estate mogul—admired, awarded, and influential—Bill never lost sight of what mattered most. He was the kind of man who never quit—always striving for success, but to be the best version of himself, to uplift those around him, and to make the most of every day. He accomplished more in a lifetime than most could ever imagine, yet he remained grounded—humble, generous, and full of heart.

To the world, he was a visionary business leader. But to his family, he was “Poppy”—the rock, their guiding light, and a steady source of strength and unconditional love. Bill had a deep love for his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren—a love that echoed in every laugh, every story, and every proud smile. And his love for his wife, Jeanette, was something rare and beautiful—a lifelong bond filled with respect, joy, and unwavering devotion.

Bill was an avid golfer and proud member of both Stanton Ridge Country Club in Whitehouse Station, NJ, and The Club at Ibis in West Palm Beach, FL, where he spent many joyful hours with friends and colleagues. He achieved six holes-in-one—a reflection of the same focus and precision that defined every part of his life. He cherished friendships and community, and when not on the course or leading his company, he found deep fulfillment in giving back. Bill was a committed supporter of the Sunshine Kids Foundation, a nonprofit supporting children with cancer—a cause that held a special place in his heart.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 50 years, Jeanette Keleher; his children, Louis Keleher (Debbie) and Beth Harding (Dale); and his goddaughter, Jacqueline Torres (Gene). He was the proud Grandfather of Heather Harding (James Collaro), Nicole Nunn (Jimmy), Ashley Croydon (Tim), Carly Harding, William Keleher, Lauren Harding, Hayden Keleher, Peyton Keleher, and Caitlin Keleher; and Great-Grandfather to Braelynn, Hunter, Colton, and Maeve.

Bill is also survived by his beloved siblings: Mary Northcutt, Catherine Mishkin (Richard), Patty Davis, Barbara Marasco (George), Joanie Hail (Chris), Michael Keleher (Tarese), and Tommy Keleher (Dana). He was preceded in death by his parents, Mary and William Owen Keleher, Sr.

Whether you knew Bill for years or just a few moments, you felt truly seen and valued in his presence. His legacy is one of strength, compassion, laughter, and love. Bill’s story will live on in the hearts of those who knew him and in the lives of all he mentored, encouraged, and shaped—for generations to come.

Please join us for a Celebration of Bill’s Life. We will gather for an Open House on Sunday, May 18th, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Stanton Ridge Country Club, 25 Clubhouse Drive, Whitehouse Station, NJ. Please bring your fondest memories of Bill to share with family and friends.