Katie Kerl Death & Obituary: Beloved Delray Beach Resident and SMU Student Dies in Tragic Car Accident

Katie Kerl Death & Obituary: It is with profound sadness that we announce the untimely passing of Katie Kerl, a vibrant 20-year-old resident of Delray Beach, Florida, and a sophomore at Southern Methodist University (SMU) in Dallas, Texas. Katie tragically lost her life in a car accident on January 15, 2025, leaving her family, friends, and community devastated.

A Bright Light in Delray Beach

Katie Kerl was born on July 18, 2004, in Delray Beach, Florida, to her loving parents, Michael and Jennifer Kerl. From a young age, she exuded warmth, enthusiasm, and a love for life that touched everyone around her. A natural leader, Katie was admired for her kindness, compassion, and dedication to making others feel valued and supported.

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Academic and Athletic Achievements

Katie graduated from Atlantic Community High School in Delray Beach, where she excelled both academically and athletically. A standout in volleyball and swimming, she balanced her love for sports with a strong commitment to her studies. Her success continued at SMU, where she was a sophomore majoring in Business and an active participant in campus activities and intramural sports.

A Life Tragically Cut Short

Katie’s life was tragically cut short in a car accident on January 15, 2025, while traveling back to SMU in Dallas. Despite the efforts of emergency responders, she succumbed to her injuries. Her untimely passing has left an indelible void in the lives of her family, friends, and all who knew her.

Remembering Katie’s Legacy

Katie’s family describes her as a bright light and a source of immense joy in their lives. Her parents, Michael and Jennifer Kerl, shared, “Katie was our world. Her kindness, intelligence, and zest for life were unmatched. We are heartbroken, but we are comforted by the knowledge that she touched so many lives with her love and positivity.”

Katie is survived by her parents, Michael and Jennifer Kerl; her younger brother, Tyler; her grandparents; and a large extended family. She was predeceased by her beloved grandfather, George Kerl, whose memory she cherished deeply.

Celebration of Life and Memorial Fund

A celebration of Katie’s life will be held on January 20, 2025, at the Delray Beach Community Center:

  • Visitation: 1:00 PM
  • Memorial Service: 3:00 PM

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the Katie Kerl Memorial Fund. Proceeds will provide educational scholarships to students pursuing business degrees, honoring Katie’s passion for learning and helping others.

Final Farewell

Katie Kerl will be remembered as more than a student or athlete—she was a beacon of kindness, joy, and inspiration. Her infectious laughter and boundless energy brought light to every room she entered. Though her life was tragically cut short, her legacy will continue to shine through the countless lives she touched.

Rest in peace, Katie. You were loved beyond measure and will never be forgotten.

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