Kelly E. King

Kelly Elizabeth King, 46, passed away on May 31, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois.

Born in Rhinebeck, NY, to Robert and Margo Schumacher . She grew up in Hyde Park, New York where she focused on her studies, becoming a National Honors Society member, and developed a passion for gymnastics, gardening, rowing crew, and WPDH’s (101.5 FM) 100 countdown of classic rock songs.

Kelly graduated from Villanova University in 2001 with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and pursued her dream of designing and constructing bridges in New York City. Her expertise helped shape major infrastructure projects, including the rehabilitation of the Alexander Hamilton Bridge, spanning the boroughs of Manhattan and The Bronx. It was this project where she met her husband, Derrick. A dedicated advocate for engineering, Kelly earned her professional license in 2011.

Kelly moved to Chicago, Illinois in 2021 for work and laid out the groundwork for the Chicago Transit Authority train station at Damen and Lake Streets; if you’re taking the train to a Blackhawks/Bulls game, you’re utilizing Kelly’s station. She was an avid gardener, partial to purple tulips and orchids, and had a deep affection for animals, particularly cats.

She found immense joy in motherhood, welcoming her son, Kyle, in 2023. Sadly, after a courageous fight against glioblastoma, she passed away on May 31st, 2025. She was predeceased by her dad in 2007 and is survived by her loving husband, son, mother, brother, and extended family. In honor of Kelly’s legacy, donations may be made to myotonic dystrophy research, cancer research, or animal rescue organizations.

Funeral services will be held at the Natural Section of the Rhinebeck Cemetery on Saturday June 14th, 2025 at 11 am, 55 Mill Rd, Rhinebeck, NY 12572. A reception will follow at the Beekman Arms, 6387 Mill St, Rhinebeck, NY 12572. 

Arrangements under the direction of the Dapson-Chestney Funeral Home, Rhinebeck, NY 12572.

To send an online condolence, please visit www.dapsonchestney.com

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Kelly E. King, please visit our floral store.