DELRAY BEACH, FL – Katie Kerl, a vibrant and beloved daughter, sister, friend, and student, who lost her life 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.
A Life Full of Promise
Born on July 18, 2004, in Delray Beach, Florida, Katie was the beloved daughter of Michael and Jennifer Kerl. From an early age, she exhibited an enthusiasm for life that was contagious to everyone around her. Her natural leadership qualities, compassion, and unwavering support for others made her a cherished friend and confidante to many. Whether at school, on the sports field, or within her community, Katie’s warm spirit and generous heart left a lasting impact on everyone she encountered.
Katie graduated from Atlantic Community High School in Delray Beach, where she excelled both academically and athletically. A standout in both volleyball and swimming, she demonstrated her dedication and work ethic through every endeavor. Katie’s love for sports continued into her college years at SMU, where she remained active in recreational and intramural sports, further solidifying her reputation as someone who truly embraced life.
Her Journey at SMU
Katie’s decision to pursue a degree in Business at Southern Methodist University was just the beginning of a bright future. As a sophomore, she quickly became known for her vibrant personality and her ability to make lasting connections with others. Her classmates and professors alike admired her for her academic commitment, but it was her infectious laughter, her kindness, and her genuine enthusiasm for meeting new people that truly set her apart. Katie had a unique ability to brighten up any room she entered, and her presence was always felt—positively and profoundly.
A Tragic Loss
On the morning of January 15, 2025, Katie was involved in a devastating car accident while traveling back to campus in Dallas. Despite the best efforts of emergency responders, Katie tragically succumbed to her injuries. The news of her passing has sent shockwaves through her family, friends, and the entire SMU community. Her loss is deeply felt, and her family has been overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support from all who knew her.
Katie’s parents, Michael and Jennifer Kerl, shared their grief, describing their daughter as “a bright light in our lives who brought joy, warmth, and positivity to everything she did.” They continued, “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.”
A Celebration of Life
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.
A celebration of Katie’s life will take place on January 20, 2025, at the Delray Beach Community Center. The family invites all who knew Katie to join them in honoring 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, reflecting Katie’s passion for learning and her dedication to helping others achieve their goals.
Remembering a Legacy of Love and Kindness
Katie was more than just a student or an athlete—she was a light in the lives of everyone she met. Her ability to make people feel valued, her unwavering kindness, and her joyful presence will never be forgotten. Katie’s passing has left a hole in the hearts of all who knew her, but her legacy will live on through the lives of the people she touched and the memories of the love she shared.
Katie was a beautiful soul whose potential was limitless. Her boundless energy, genuine spirit, and zest for life will continue to inspire everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. Though she is no longer with us, her light will continue to shine in our hearts.
Rest in peace, Katie. You will always be loved, and your memory will never fade. Your legacy lives on in the hearts of your family, friends, and everyone who had the honor of knowing you. You were truly one of a kind.