John Jeffrey Kiraly

John Jeffrey Kiraly, 53, of Farmington, New Mexico passed away on July 31, 2026. 

Born on May 16, 1973, in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Jeff was the first-born child of Eric and Cynthia Kiraly. After graduating from La Cueva High School in 1991, he earned Gatorade State Player of the Year honors before getting drafted in the third round to the New York Mets. In the midst of his success on the field, he was also pursuing the love of his life, Janette Kiraly. He spent four seasons in the minors, transitions through multiple successful careers, and began his coaching career at Piedra Vista in 2019 leading them to a Class 5A championship his last year. 

Throughout his life, Jeff was known for how devoted he was to his family, friends, and team. Anything anyone needed, Jeff was the first to step in and make it happen. His presence filled every room that he walked into. There was never a dull moment with "el jefe". He touched countless lives through his successful baseball career as a player and a coach. Jeff didn't just coach the game but coached his players through life.

Jeff enjoyed taking dogs to the field with his wife Janette, fishing with all his "famous friends", going on dirt bike and motorcycle rides, and spending hours talking with his fellow coaches about the next game's game-plan. He will be remembered by all of his career accolades; but most importantly by how he made everyone feel seen and cared for. 

He is survived by his high school sweetheart Janette Kiraly; two children Kylee and Trent Kiraly; and sister Kariann Kiraly. 

Jeff was preceded in death by Eric and Cynthia Kiraly. 

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, August 8th at 11:00 am at Eastern Hills Baptist Church on 3100 Morris Street Northeast Albuquerque, NM.