Kelsey R. Kennedy

Our beloved Kelsey (they/them) died by suicide on October 5th, 2022, at the age of 32. Kelsey embodied unbelievable strength and courage and was never afraid to speak about their challenges with mental health. We know that they would want their friends and family to know this, and importantly, to acknowledge it. In Kelsey’s words: “I believe we have the ability to impact one another by making space for the hard feelings and ensuring that you don't have to be alone when hard feelings come up.” While we may all feel more alone without our dear Kels, its more important than ever to recognize that we are all together.

Kelsey was and always will be a force for love, kindness, & empathy. They dedicated their life to helping and celebrating others and brought so much joy and passion into everything they did. Kelsey spent their early career advocating for those experiencing homelessness in Indianapolis, and most recently worked with Trinity Haven to help provide safe affirming housing for LGBTQ youth. Kelsey’s dedication was recognized recently as they were the recipient of the 2022 ELEVATE Nonprofit Employee of the Year Award.

Kels loved so deeply. The list of their “loves” could go on for miles and miles. Anyone who met Kels knows they loved to laugh; dance & be silly - yet they also had a unique ability to get into the deepest of philosophical conversations at the drop of a hat. There was so much growth & healing in those conversations. Kels saw the beauty in all things – and had a special love for the mountains, enjoying the sunshine, and animals – particularly their two cats, Lemon & Oliver.

Above all, Kelsey loved the people that surrounded their beautiful life. Kelsey’s light will continue to shine on through their family & friends, and anyone who had the opportunity to feel Kelsey’s presence. Kelsey is survived by their mother and stepfather, Nancy Renner Clear and Bruce Clear; father and stepmother, Ted and Lisa Kennedy; 4 siblings, 3 step-siblings, 7 nieces and nephews, and countless friends and extended family.

Private services will be held at a later date.

Please consider making a donation or contributing to the work of one of the following organizations close to Kelsey’s heart:

Trinity Haven: http://www.trinityhavenindy.org/about/

SOAR: https://www.soarinitiative.com/

The Trevor Project: https://www.thetrevorproject.org/

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.crownhill.org for the Kennedy family.