It is with profound sadness and broken hearts that we announce the untimely passing of Katie Kerl, a vibrant and beloved daughter, sister, friend, and student, who tragically died in a car accident on January 15, 2025, at the age of 20. Katie, a resident of Delray Beach, Florida, and a sophomore at Southern Methodist University (SMU) in Dallas, Texas, was known for her infectious smile, boundless energy, and passion for life. Her untimely passing has left a deep void in the hearts of her family, friends, classmates, and all those who were fortunate enough to know her.
Katie was born on July 18, 2004, in Delray Beach, Florida, to her loving parents, Michael and Jennifer Kerl. From a young age, Katie exhibited an enthusiasm for life that was both contagious and inspiring. She was a natural leader, known for her kindness, compassion, and unwavering support for those around her. Her ability to make others feel seen and heard made her a cherished friend to so many. Whether at school, on the sports field, or in her community, Katie’s warm spirit and generous heart left a lasting impression on everyone she met.
Katie graduated from Atlantic Community High School in Delray Beach, where she excelled both academically and athletically. She was a dedicated student who worked hard to achieve her goals, always striving for excellence in everything she did. She was a standout athlete, participating in volleyball and swimming, and her love for sports carried over into her college years, where she was involved in recreational activities and intramural sports at SMU.
After high school, Katie pursued her education at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas, where she was a sophomore majoring in Business. Katie’s time at SMU was marked by her involvement in various campus organizations and clubs. Her commitment to her studies was evident, but it was her enthusiasm for meeting new people and making lasting connections that truly set her apart. She quickly became known on campus for her infectious laughter, her dedication to her friends, and her ability to brighten up any room.
Katie’s tragic death occurred in a car accident on the morning of January 15, 2025, while traveling back to campus in Dallas. She was involved in a collision, and despite the best efforts of emergency responders, Katie succumbed to her injuries. The news of her passing has shocked and devastated her family, friends, and all who knew her. Her loss is felt deeply, and her family has been overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support from those whose lives Katie touched.
Katie’s family has expressed their grief and sadness over her loss, describing her as a bright light in their lives who brought joy, warmth, and positivity to everything she did. Her parents, Michael and Jennifer, said, “Katie was our world. She was everything we could have hoped for in a daughter—kind, smart, and full of life. We are heartbroken that her journey was cut short, but we take comfort in knowing she touched so many lives with her love and kindness.”
Katie is survived by her parents, Michael and Jennifer Kerl; her younger brother, Tyler; her grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and a wide circle of friends who will miss her dearly. She was predeceased by her beloved grandfather, George Kerl, whose memory Katie held dear. Her family, friends, and SMU classmates are left to mourn the loss of a young woman whose potential was limitless, whose love for life was inspiring, and whose heart was as big as the world itself.
A celebration of Katie’s life will be held on January 20, 2025, at the Delray Beach Community Center, where her family invites all those who knew Katie to come together to honor her memory. A visitation will begin at 1:00 PM, followed by a memorial service at 3:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Katie Kerl Memorial Fund, which will support educational scholarships for students pursuing business degrees in memory of Katie’s passion for learning and her dedication to helping others.
Katie’s family, friends, and classmates are struggling with the loss of such a bright, beautiful, and talented young woman. Her death has left a deep sadness in all of their hearts, but the love and joy Katie brought into the world will never be forgotten. Her legacy will continue to live on through the lives of the people she touched and the memories of the love she shared.
Katie was more than just a student or an athlete—she was a light in the lives of everyone she met. She will be remembered for her kindness, her dedication to others, and her ability to bring joy and laughter to any room she entered. Katie’s passing has left a hole in the hearts of all who knew her, but her spirit and memory will continue to inspire those who loved her for years to come.
Rest in peace, Katie. You will always be loved and never forgotten. Your legacy lives on in the hearts of your family, friends, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing you. You were truly one of a kind.
