Davilee Kadrlik Obituary and Death – The Tomahawk Creek Middle School community is grieving the loss of Davilee Kadrlik, a dedicated special education teacher whose impact reached far beyond the classroom. Kadrlik, 51, passed away on May 31, 2025, in Richmond, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, creativity, and unwavering commitment to the students she served. Her death has left an indelible mark on both her family and the entire school community.
School officials shared the news of her passing with heavy hearts in an email sent to Tomahawk Creek families. The message expressed the school’s sadness and also conveyed the family’s wishes to share the news. “We received permission from the family to share this with you. We will continue to keep the family in our thoughts during this difficult time,” the email read. In response, the Chesterfield County school system has offered grief counselors and other support services to help students and staff process the loss.
Although the cause of Kadrlik’s death was not officially disclosed by the school, a family friend revealed to CBS 6 that she had been battling cancer with remarkable strength and courage. In response to the family’s needs during this challenging time, a GoFundMe campaign was launched to provide financial assistance for the Kadrlik family.
Kadrlik’s life journey was defined by her passion for both the arts and education. A proud graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University, Kadrlik pursued her dreams in music and acting, even performing her original songs at the renowned House of Blues in Los Angeles. Her boldness and creative spirit led her to achieve significant milestones in the entertainment industry before returning to Richmond to find her true calling—teaching.
Her career as an educator began at Falling Creek Middle School before she joined the faculty at Tomahawk Creek Middle School, where she would spend over two decades transforming the lives of countless students. As a special education teacher, Kadrlik was admired for her exceptional ability to connect with her students, seeing potential in each child and fostering an environment where they could thrive. “Davilee left a lasting impression on her students and colleagues,” her obituary stated. “She was known for her radiant kindness, fierce dedication, and gift for seeing potential in every child.”
Kadrlik’s students remember her as someone who believed in them, even when others might not have. She was a teacher who nurtured both academic and personal growth, encouraging her students to be confident, empathetic, and expressive. Her ability to blend her passion for the arts with her educational work made her a unique and beloved figure. Whether it was through creative projects or one-on-one guidance, Kadrlik was known for bringing light and joy into her classroom.
Her colleagues spoke of a warm and passionate educator who was not only deeply knowledgeable but also approachable and supportive. Kadrlik’s infectious laughter and kind demeanor brightened every meeting and hallway interaction, making her a cherished member of the school community. She will be remembered as an inspiring teacher whose influence extended far beyond the classroom.
To honor her life and legacy, a celebration of life memorial for Davilee Kadrlik will be held on Wednesday, June 18, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Garden Hall building at Maymont. This beautiful location, rich in nature and history, is a fitting tribute to a woman who deeply embraced the beauty of life and learning.
Kadrlik leaves behind her loving husband, two daughters, her mother, and her sister. Her memory will continue to serve as a guiding light for all those who had the privilege of knowing her—whether through her work as an educator, her artistic endeavors, or simply through the profound kindness and empathy she shared with those around her.
