The Wahkiakum County Eagle - Established as The Skamokawa Eagle in 1891

Kelsey Alexandra Urling died in her sleep in Kelso on March 3, 2024. She was 33.

Born in Longview on Aug. 6, 1990, Kelsey lived in Kalama until her family moved to Longview before her third birthday. Kelsey was a 2008 graduate of Mark Morris High School and attended Western Washington University. She is survived by her parents, Skip and Loretta Urling, numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins, and a large chosen family. She was preceded in death by her grandmother Rita Urling, her grandparents Bill and Thelma Renfro, grandparents Gordon and Marie Holland, and aunt Patty Renfro.

Kelsey worked at the WWU Bookstore, Wilcox & Flegel, and the Flying K/Flyways in Kelso. She was a standout multi-sport varsity athlete at Mark Morris. She loved floating the Kalama River, singing karaoke, and playing darts with her friends at Scooter's in Kelso. A life-long animal lover, Kelsey believed they spoke her language. Animals were drawn to her, and she loved and cared for them.

Those who knew Kelsey found her to be a kind, original spirit, and describe her as a ray of sunshine. She was known to lift up everyone around her, for including everyone, for giving great hugs, and for a brilliant sense of humor. She was a fiercely loyal friend and family member, and was always there when someone needed her.

A celebration of life will be held Saturday, March 23 at Steele Chapel at Longview Memorial Park, 1:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Cowlitz County Humane Society in her name.