- R
It is with profound sadness that I write to let you know that Miss Kelly’s beloved husband, Tony Garcia, has passed away. Tony was diagnosed with Covid-19 in December, and after fighting for over a month in the ICU, he was finally able to rest, surrounded by his family, and find peace.
After an incredibly challenging year, and over a month in the hospital, the Garcia family could use our help. There are steep medical bills ahead, as well as funeral expenses and the reality of the loss of their family’s provider. As Miss Kelly grieves and turns toward an uncertain future, I hope that you’ll consider contributing to make this transition a little easier.
As many of you know, Kelly and Tony have been part of our Next Step Family from the very beginning. When I was just starting the studio, Kelly was the first person I hired and has been right by my side ever since. As a young mom trying to grow a business without much guidance, I could always rely on the loyalty and unparalleled work ethic of the Garcias. Kelly taught classes, directed teams, managed our locations, planned our Disney trips, handled the books, and so much more in those early days. Tony was there with us every step of the way. You all have seen him working his audio/musical magic at our many events, charity performances, Fall festivals, Frozen shows, NS conventions in Napa and Monterey, and other performances over the years. The list of dance events he helped us with is endless.
There can be so much unpredictability in those crazy live performance backstage moments, and it can feel stressful at times. One thing I knew I never had to worry about was Tony. He was always there, always ready, and always smiling. He did all of this, yes because he supported the studio and our dancers, but also because of his deep commitment and lifelong love for Kelly.
Kelly and Tony were high school sweethearts and were married for 38 years. In that time they built a beautiful life together, raising their two kids Kami and AJ, working hard side by side to provide for their family, and prioritizing family, faith, music and joy the whole way through. Despite this tragic loss, I hope you’ll join me in celebrating the legacy of this loving, talented, hardworking man, which should not get lost in our sadness.
I can say that after 33 years of owning the studio, when I reflect back on the many events we’ve attended and the wonderful families and children who have passed through our lives, it has truly been an exceptional blessing. Not only for me, but for my team of amazing teachers and their families. As Kelly has been confronted with the impossible, it has been incredibly comforting for her to receive support from so many of the Next Step families she taught over the years. Though we are devastated, we are also thankful to have this community.
On behalf of myself and my staff, we thank you for your support and your kindness, and we ask that you please continue to keep Miss Kelly and her family in your hearts and prayers.
After an incredibly challenging year, and over a month in the hospital, the Garcia family could use our help. There are steep medical bills ahead, as well as funeral expenses and the reality of the loss of their family’s provider. As Miss Kelly grieves and turns toward an uncertain future, I hope that you’ll consider contributing to make this transition a little easier.
As many of you know, Kelly and Tony have been part of our Next Step Family from the very beginning. When I was just starting the studio, Kelly was the first person I hired and has been right by my side ever since. As a young mom trying to grow a business without much guidance, I could always rely on the loyalty and unparalleled work ethic of the Garcias. Kelly taught classes, directed teams, managed our locations, planned our Disney trips, handled the books, and so much more in those early days. Tony was there with us every step of the way. You all have seen him working his audio/musical magic at our many events, charity performances, Fall festivals, Frozen shows, NS conventions in Napa and Monterey, and other performances over the years. The list of dance events he helped us with is endless.
There can be so much unpredictability in those crazy live performance backstage moments, and it can feel stressful at times. One thing I knew I never had to worry about was Tony. He was always there, always ready, and always smiling. He did all of this, yes because he supported the studio and our dancers, but also because of his deep commitment and lifelong love for Kelly.
Kelly and Tony were high school sweethearts and were married for 38 years. In that time they built a beautiful life together, raising their two kids Kami and AJ, working hard side by side to provide for their family, and prioritizing family, faith, music and joy the whole way through. Despite this tragic loss, I hope you’ll join me in celebrating the legacy of this loving, talented, hardworking man, which should not get lost in our sadness.
I can say that after 33 years of owning the studio, when I reflect back on the many events we’ve attended and the wonderful families and children who have passed through our lives, it has truly been an exceptional blessing. Not only for me, but for my team of amazing teachers and their families. As Kelly has been confronted with the impossible, it has been incredibly comforting for her to receive support from so many of the Next Step families she taught over the years. Though we are devastated, we are also thankful to have this community.
On behalf of myself and my staff, we thank you for your support and your kindness, and we ask that you please continue to keep Miss Kelly and her family in your hearts and prayers.
Organizer and beneficiary
Kelly Garcia
Beneficiary