Obituary:

Life Story

Channell Katrice Kinard

March 31, 1991 – July 11, 2025

Channell Katrice Kinard was born on March 31, 1991, in Camden, New Jersey, the beloved youngest child of the late Keith and Latanja Kinard. On July 11, 2025, at the tender age of 34, Channell peacefully transitioned from this life, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and resilience.

A proud graduate of Dr. Charles E. Brimm Medical Arts High School (Class of 2009), Channell began her college journey that fall at Fairleigh Dickinson University. Though her time there was cut short due to her ongoing battle with Sickle Cell Disease, Channell never let the illness define her. Instead, she became a Sickle Cell Warrior—an outspoken advocate who used her voice and experience to educate others, support fellow fighters, and raise awareness. Most recently, she served on a public panel and shared her story in an interview, continuing her mission to bring visibility and change for those living with the disease.

Family was the heartbeat of Channell’s world. Whether by blood or by bond, she fiercely loved those closest to her. She cherished her time with her fiancé, Tyrell DuBois, and found joy in simple pleasures like binge-watching her favorite shows, attending concerts, and spending quality time with her beloved dogs, Princess and Mercy. A true creative spirit, Channell enjoyed coloring, music, and meaningful conversation—and she never turned down a good snack, especially sourdough pretzels.

Channell’s warmth, wisdom, and sense of humor left a lasting impression on everyone she met. She was the friend who gave the best advice, the sister who made you laugh, the auntie who showed up with love and affection, and the woman who could light up a room with her smile. She had a special heart for children and a gift for making people feel seen and supported.

Her favorite artists—Michael Jackson, Usher, and Beyoncé—reflected her vibrant personality: soulful, timeless, and full of life.

Channell was preceded in death by her parents, Keith and Latanja Kinard. She leaves to cherish her memory: her brother, Keith Kinard Jr. (Ni’G); her sisters, LaKee (Nadia Syed) and Tarez Smith; her fiancé, Tyrell DuBois; her nieces, Jordyn, Autumn, Lai’Cee, and Zara; her nephews, Keith III, Karson, Qarri, and Samir; and a host of devoted family members, friends, and fellow warriors who will continue to carry her light.

Though gone too soon, Channell’s love, courage, and legacy will live on in all of us who were blessed to know her.