A young cheerleader at CEA Lady Mermaids and Green Level High School, Acie Kelly Tatum, passed away untimely on September 6, 2025, at the age of 19.
However, the precise reason behind her sudden passing remains concealed.
Acie Kelly Tatum is survived by her mother, Michele Kelly, and her mother’s fiancé, Todd Philips.
She was preceded in demise by her father, who passed away in 2021.
Her mother shared the exclusive heartbreaking news of her demise via Facebook, writing:
With the heaviest heart, I share that my sweet, beautiful daughter passed away last night. There are no words—my heart is shattered. I know she would be telling me to stop crying, but the missing her will never end. Please, hug your babies tight…for her💔
Michele Kelly
Love you baby!!
Acie was studying her Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte with a concentration in motorsports.
She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Biology at Appalachian State University. Acie graduated from Green Level High School in June 2024.
At such a young age, Acie had already gained experience other than cheerleading. She worked as a mechanical specialist at UNC Charlotte.
Likewise, she has served as a server at The Dugout Tavern.
Acie was working on team synergy at Appalachian State University, where she designed and optimized tire specifications for a solar race car.
Following her sudden passing, her social media has been flooded with words of condolences.
Nia Patell, one of her best friends, shared some of their pictures and penned an eulogy which reads:
it doesn’t feel real knowing your gone. i love you to the moon and back a million times.from cheering together in highschool to coming to clt and being one of my best friends, you’ve always been such a light in my life. i’m gonna miss our random debreifs and making awful tiktoks before going out. you were truly one of the greatest, and you touched every heart and soul you’ve ever met.
Nia Patell
So far, details surrounding her funeral service have yet to be published by her family.
During this ordeal, we pray for the strength of Acie’s mother, friends, and extended family.
Rest In Heavenly Peace, Acie Kelly Tatum!
