Jeffrey Relyea came into this world on April 20, 1959, in Wappingers Falls, New York, born to Ralph and Ethel Relyea. From the very beginning, he carried a lightness of being – a curiosity for life, a devotion to music, and a heart tuned to love. Somewhere along the way, he remembered who he truly was and chose the name JefFree, a name that reflected the spirit he lived from: open, unbound, and awake.
He leaves behind his two sons, David Relyea of Schoharie, New York, and Steven Relyea and his wife Michelle of San Diego, California – extensions of his being, walking the world in their own way. His heart overflowed with love for his grandchildren, Parisay and Atlas, whom he adored as teachers, miracles, and reminders of wonder.
Jeffrey is also lovingly held in the hearts of his siblings: Michele and Larry Haynes of New Hamburg, New York; Michael and Gay Relyea of North Augusta, South Carolina; Susan and Mike Reed of Eureka Springs, Arkansas; Judith Durland of Schoharie, New York; and Steven and Rosanna Relyea of Fishkill, New York. He is remembered with great affection by his many nieces and nephews, each one touched by his presence in their own sacred way.
For the last eight years, Jeffrey offered his gift freely on the streets of downtown Eureka Springs, his harmonica singing through the air like a prayer. He didn’t just play music – he was the music. His melodies met people where they were, softening edges, opening hearts, reminding us to pause, to breathe, to feel. When the streets were full, he was there. When the streets were empty and the night settled in, he was still there – keeping quiet company with the moon and anyone who needed a moment of peace. He was a familiar sound, a steady presence, love humming through brass and breath.
Though his body has moved on, Jeffrey has not gone anywhere. We hear him still – in the echoes of a harmonica, in the hush after a long day, in the simple joy of being alive. What we carry forward is not just memory, but presence. What we loved in him lives within us now.
A celebration of life will be held at Lake Leatherwood in Eureka Springs sometime in January, with another gathering planned in New York in the spring. Details will be shared with family and friends as plans unfold.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to A Cup of Love Food Pantry, a charity JefFree loved and frequented, in honor of his generous and compassionate spirit.
Donations can be made online at: acupofloveministry. org Much love to a brother, a friend, a traveler who walked gently and loved deeply.
The music continues. The love remains.
Be here now, JefFree.
