Ms. Ogea

Kaylee Addyson Ogea, 18, of Shawboro, North Carolina, passed away on Sunday, June 23, 2024, in Washing ton, Pennsylvania.

Kaylee was born Sept. 4, 2005, in Beauf ort, South Ca r o l ina, to Adam Wesley and Shannon Michelle (Evans) Ogea.

Kaylee graduated from JP Knapp Early College High School in Currituck, NC, in May 2023, where she received her associates degree prior to her high school graduation.

Kaylee was attending Robert Morris University in Pittsburgh, PA, pursing a degree in criminal justice. She was a member of the RMU Division 2 Club Ice Hockey team, a member of the RMU rowing team, a cadet in the ROTC, and a participant in the Women Leadership and Mentorship Program.

Quoting Robert Morris University President Dr. Michelle Patrick, “Kaylee’s dedication, leadership and spirit were evident in all that she did. Kaylee loss is felt deeply by all who had the privilege of knowing her. She was a cherished member of our university family, and she will be sorely missed.”

Kaylee is survived by her mother Shannon Smith and husband Kyle of Shawboro, NC; brother Logan Smith of Shawboro, NC; grandparents Lillian Evans of Shawboro, NC, Karla Smith of Lancaster, OH, Billy and Anita Ogea of Rockdale; aunts and uncles Jessie and Amy Casas of Rockdale, Thomas Evans of Shawboro, NC, Myrel Evans of Norfolk, VA, Brett Smith of Puyallup, WA; cousins McKade Casas of Belton, McKason Casas and Leo Casas of Rockdale, Bryden Smith and Eli Smith of Puyallup, WA; and special friend Jubal Osborn of Pittsburgh, PA.

Kaylee was preceded in death by her father SSgt Adam W. Ogea, USMC, and Uncle Aaron Smith.

Kaylee taught us to live life without fear and without hesitation. Always smiling, always trying something new—sometimes maybe twice and always being brave enough to stand up for herself and others.

Kayla was laid to rest in a private service on July 5, 2024.

The Kaylee Ogea Memorial Fund was established to continue Kaylee’s positive impact on the Robert Morris University community, ensuring that her spirit lives on in the lives of future students. If you wish to donate to this outstanding cause visit www.rmu.edu/alumni- giving/giving/ogea.