Kelley Mack, born Kelley Klebenow and best known for her role in the post-apocalyptic drama The Walking Dead, has passed away at just 33 years old. While every loss brings sadness, there’s a particular ache when someone is taken too soon.
The actress died on Saturday, August 2, in her hometown of Cincinnati. Her family confirmed the news a few days later, on Tuesday, through a heartfelt message shared on social media: “It is with indelible sadness that we are announcing the passing of our dear Kelley. Such a bright, fervent light has transitioned to the beyond, where we all eventually must go.”
They added that Kelley passed peacefully, surrounded by her loving mother, Kristen, and her devoted aunt, Karen. “Kelley has already come to many of her loved ones in the form of various butterflies. She will be missed by so many—to depths that words cannot express,” the statement continued, as shared by her sister.
The funeral will take place on August 16 in Ohio.
“She would want you all to know how much she loves you. And as her sister, I want you all to know how brave that tough SOB was, especially when she decided to make the leap to be reunited with God. I’m so proud of her,” she shared.
A Life Devoted to Storytelling
From a young age, Kelley Mack appeared in commercials and discovered her passion for storytelling after receiving a mini camera as a gift. She later earned recognition for her role in the short film The Elephant Garden during her college years at NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts.
A 2014 graduate in cinematography from Chapman University, Kelley combined her talents both in front of and behind the camera—acting, writing, producing, and directing several independent films and shorts. Though her most notable role was in The Walking Dead, she also portrayed Penelope Jacobs in Chicago Med (Season 8) and made appearances in 9‑1‑1 (2019).
After being diagnosed with a glioma, a type of tumor affecting the central nervous system, Kelley began publicly documenting her treatment journey. This included the effects of a spinal biopsy that led to a loss of mobility in her legs and her rehabilitation process. She did so with unwavering courage, continuing to inspire until the very end.
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