Chessa Elizabeth MacKenzie

With heavy hearts and deep anguish, we announce the unexpected passing of Chessa Elizabeth MacKenzie, on February 4, 2025, in Nashville, Tennessee at the early age of 25.

Chessa was born to parents Krystal Kelly and Scott MacKenzie in Norwood, Massachusetts. After graduating from King Philip Regional High School in 2018, she went on to earn her Bachelor of Science in Law and Public Policy, Cum Laude, and her Master of Arts in Applied Politics at Suffolk University.

Chessa was an exceptionally intelligent young woman, and though her time with us was brief, she leaves behind a legacy of compassion, kindness, and the importance of connection. Chessa walked through life with resilience, tenacious strength, a radiant smile, unforgettable grace and poise, and boundless curiosity while touching the lives of everyone she encountered.

Chessa had an adventurous spirit with a willingness to try new things, take risks, and embrace new challenges. Her love for the outdoors brought out the happy, free spirit that defined her. She enjoyed traveling and exploring new places, including Myanmar and Ecuador. Chessa independently traveled cross-country in a self-converted van to visit as many national parks as she could.

She was a music enthusiast with a passion for connecting to lyrics and immersing herself in songs. She had a deep appreciation for various musical styles and genres. Chessa found beauty in life’s simple moments and encouraged others to do the same. Her caring spirit and generous heart could be felt by anyone she connected with. She had a special gift of not only seeing the good in people but bringing out the best in them as well. Chessa will be missed more than any words could express and will be forever in our hearts until we meet again.

Chessa is survived by her parents: Sean and Krystal Kelly, Scott and Stephanie MacKenzie; her siblings: Matthew, Gianna, Katelyn, Logan, and Benjamin; her grandparents: “Bampa,” James Bedford, Nancy MacKenzie, Richie and Brenda Kelly, Michael and Dona Saviano; her aunts: Jenn, Kelly, Christine, LeAnne, Hope and Denise; her uncles: Trevor, Matthew, Allan and Jimmy; and many close cousins, great uncles, great aunts and countless friends.

She was predeceased by her grandparents: “Mammie,” Dawne Bedford and “Grandpa Rock,” Rodney MacKenzie.

A Celebration of her Life will be held THURSDAY (February 20th) from 4:00PM to 7:00PM at the Edwards Memorial Funeral Home, 44 Congress Street, Milford MA.

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