Kaylee Fitz

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

It is with deep sorrow and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Kaylee Marie Fitz, age 25, who tragically left us on December 6, 2025. Kaylee was a dedicated nurse, a compassionate student, and a cherished friend to all who knew her. Her unexpected loss leaves a void that words cannot express, and she will be dearly missed by her family, friends, and the countless lives she touched. She had been employed by Medicalodges for 9 years. She graduated from Franklin Tech in 2023 as an LPN and was currently enrolled in their RN program.


Kaylee was born on December 16,1999 in Joplin to David and Deanna Fitz. She entered this world at 1# 9oz and 12 inches, and has been a fighter from that day forward.

Kaylee's best buddy was her cat Callie . Callie was a constant source of comfort and joy in her life, a companion who brought her peace during the hardest of times.

Though Kaylee faced battles that she kept hidden from many and challenges that were often unseen. Despite the love and support of her family and friends, those struggles grew heavier than anyone could have imagined. Her passing is a heartbreaking reminder of the importance of compassion, connection, and caring for one another.

Kaylee loved many things, the Kansas City Chiefs, music of all kinds, rodeos, road trips with her family, the serenity of nature ,especially water and sunsets.

Survivors include her mom Deanna Fitz of Columbus, her dad David Fitz of Hallowell and his companion Sarah Sexton, her brother Cory David Fitz of Columbus and his fiance Haley Jones, her second mom - her Aunt Paula and Uncle Bobby Handshy and their daughters Lilly and Lydia of Columbus. Grandparents Fern Henderson and Ann Fitz and the late Glen Henderson and Don Fitz. Uncle Joe Fitz (Ruth) of Colorado, Devon Fitz, of Hallowell and Amee Simon (Grant) of Pittsburg. Along with numerous aunts, uncles and cousins that loved her dearly. She is also preceded in death by her Aunt Denise Fitz.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made in Kaylee’s memory to Derfelt Funeral Home to help defray funeral costs.

Funeral services are under the direction of Derfelt Funeral Home of Columbus, Kansas, and will be held on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at 2:00 PM at Park Cemetery in Columbus. The family will receive friends at 1:00 PM Thursday, prior to the service, at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made payable to the funeral home to help with final expenses.




May Kaylee find the peace that she so deserved, and may we hold her memory close to close to our hearts forever.