Kelsey Michelle Taveras

A true tragedy occurred last Friday. Kelsey Taveras passed away unexpectedly on November 17, 2023; she was 29 years old. Her short life was overflowing with unmatched passion and intensity. She put her whole heart into each activity she loved, and there were many.

Kelsey earned two degrees from Florida International University: a B.S. in Broadcast Journalism and a B.S. in Marine Biology. Following her dedication to helping people and animals, and her affection for water adventure, she became certified in SCUBA, Scientific Diving, surfing, whitewater kayak instruction, lifeguarding, oxygen administration, first aid, and CPR, registered as a notary public, and was working toward licensure in real estate and public adjustment. While making the transition as a producer between news studios from Miami to Tampa, she sold her handmade creations and provided licensed care for dogs.

Kelsey found joy in creating for those she loved, who reflect on her as a powerful source of light, laughter, and endless compassion. Her paintings, designs, recipes and poems still radiate her characteristic joie de vivre. She especially loved to bring her passion for improving animal welfare across the world, and relished in the travel itself. Kelsey's globetrotting spirit will remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. Apart from nearly all major U.S. cities, she has visited Aruba, Columbia, Japan, Italy, Mexico, Peru, Thailand, Spain, Nicaragua, France, England and South Africa. Her favorite places to spend time, however, were the beaches of Hawai'i, Costa Rica, the Caribbean islands, where she could "live by the sea and love by the moon."

She is survived by her parents: Dr. Luis and Kim Taveras, her siblings: Maritere, Kara and Michael, her niece and nephews: Sebastian, Archangel, Lydia and Clifford, and her beloved cats: Simba and Loki, who will remain in the care of Michael.

Services will be held Saturday, November 25th at 9:00 AM at Blount and Curry Funeral Home in Carrollwood for TRUE and REAL friends only.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.blountcurrycarrollwood.com for the Taveras family.