Mourning the Passing of Rev. William Melillo Jr. (1936-2025)

Fr. Bill was ordained a priest on May 28, 1966, and was assigned to Seton Hall Prep in 1978, where he would remain through his retirement. Along with our school President, Msgr. Michael E. Kelly ’57, he orchestrated the annual Easter Vigil Mass on campus and greeted each child with a blessed chocolate bunny, Holy Water, and a gift.

Fr. Bill began his SHP career teaching Theology and later served as the chairman of the department. He became a school counselor in 1989 and was instrumental in the founding of the Walton Family Learning Center, which offers additional academic support to students. He also served as the chaplain for athletic teams at Seton Hall Prep.

“Father Bill made Seton Hall Prep a family. If you ask around our faculty, there is a strong chance he married them and their spouses or baptized their children,” said Michael G. Gallo ’79, SHP Headmaster. “He was always checking in and asking how people were doing and seldom missed a birthday message to show he was thinking about you.”

“We were as close as any family member, sharing a home together in the rectory since 1985,” commented Msgr. Michael E. Kelly ’57, SHP President. “He was a true friend and a vital member of the Seton Hall Prep community. He was recognized with the Thomas A. Reynolds Award from the Fathers Club, the Salvatore N. Caprio Award for ‘his generosity in time, patience, and concern for students,’ and had the yearbook dedicated twice in his honor. My life, as well as the lives of students and faculty, was transformed by the kindness and care of Fr. Bill.”

Ordained on May 28, 1966, Rev. Melillo’s ministry spanned several decades, with assignments across northern New Jersey, including St. Vincent de Paul (Bayonne, 1966-69), St. Rose of Lima (Short Hills, 1969-1976), St. Philomena (Livingston, 1976-1978), Our Lady of Lourdes (West Orange, 1978-2001), and Our Lady of the Lake (Verona, 2001–2020).

• Visitation: 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM
• Funeral Mass: 11:00 AM