The community of Boyd County, Kentucky is grieving the tragic loss of 18-year-old Kylie Crooks, a beloved daughter, friend, and former Boyd County High School volleyball standout. Kylie passed away unexpectedly, leaving behind a community heartbroken by the loss of such a vibrant and promising young life.

Born and raised in Catlettsburg, Kentucky, Kylie was a proud graduate of Boyd County High School, where she made a name for herself both on and off the volleyball court. A driven student-athlete, Kylie was known for her determination, her work ethic, and most of all, her heart. She was the kind of teammate who lifted everyone around her, not just through her athletic talent, but through her infectious positivity and unwavering support.

Kylie’s love for volleyball extended beyond high school, as she competed with the BVA (Bluegrass Volleyball Academy) 17 BoCo team, where she built lasting bonds and inspired those she played with.

Her teammates, many of whom were preparing for Wave 3 of AAU Nationals at the time of her passing, now carry her memory onto the court, playing with the strength and spirit that Kylie exemplified every day.

The BVA organization shared their deep condolences with Kylie’s loved ones, recognizing not only the loss of a remarkable athlete, but the departure of a cherished soul. “The girls of BVA 17 BoCo mourn the loss of their beloved teammate,” the team said in a heartfelt tribute. “We know that they will honor her life and legacy by playing in her memory.”

Kylie’s impact stretched beyond the sport. She was a light in her community, a young woman with dreams, laughter, and love that touched everyone she met. Her teachers remember her as bright and engaged, her friends recall her loyalty and kindness, and her coaches describe her as a leader whose presence made the team better in every way.

As the news of her death spread, tributes poured in from friends, classmates, and fellow athletes. The consistent message was clear: Kylie was a joy to know. She brought warmth and energy into every room, every game, and every friendship. The void left by her passing is immeasurable, but so too is the legacy she leaves behind.

She lived in Boyd, Kentucky with a heart full of dreams and a soul that radiated joy. Whether she was cheering on a teammate, setting up the perfect play, or sharing a laugh in the locker room, Kylie brought grace and strength to every moment. Her life, though far too short, was filled with love, achievement, and genuine care for others.

In this time of sorrow, the Boyd County community is united in honoring Kylie’s memory. There is comfort in the shared grief, in the stories exchanged, and in the games played with her name on the players’ hearts. While her passing has left her loved ones with a profound sense of loss, there is also a profound gratitude for having known her.

Kylie Crooks will be remembered not just as an athlete, but as a beautiful spirit whose kindness, strength, and joy made the world better for those around her. As her teammates take the court and her community gathers in remembrance, her spirit lives on—in every serve, every cheer, and every heart she touched.