Kelli Ann Cantrelle
Kelli Ann Cantrelle passed away at sixty years of age. She is survived by her mother Carolynn, her brother Tony, her daughters, Allicia and Natalie, her son Taylor, her grandchildren Lennox and Aiden, and her granddogs Buttercup and Finn. Kelli had a special bond with her late father Rocky and her late grandmother Katherine “Grandi”—her family and friends find relief that they have been reunited.
Kelli was born in Santa Barbara at St. Francis Hospital. Her early years were full of sunshine and adventure—riding through North Goleta on bike handlebars, flowers in her hair, and a carefree spirit leading the way. She attended El Rancho Elementary, Goleta Valley Junior High, and Dos Pueblos High School. Kelli was a talented swimmer, she competed regionally with the same heart and determination that defined her life.
Kelli worked in Santa Barbara County as an office manager. Known for her hardworking can-do attitude, she could juggle a dozen tasks and still have time to make you laugh.
What truly set Kelli apart was her gift with people. She welcomed everyone with open arms and an open heart, embracing all backgrounds, beliefs, and identities. She made every space feel more human, more joyful, and more alive.
True to her Aries spirit, Kelli brought her fiery energy to the sidelines of her son’s football games—where she cheered with full heart, never one to sit in the stands.
In her later years, Kelli found peace in Ensenada, Mexico, where she cared for rescue dogs Zsara and Grace Jones and created seaside-inspired art for her loved ones. Social media kept her close to family, especially through photos and videos of her grandkids and granddogs.
Kelli was the life of the party and believed in celebrating life. We invite those who knew her to honor her in their own way—raise a glass, play the song “Low Rider”, watch the movie “Remember the Titans”, make a donation to your local humane society, and wear vibrant colors. Though she loved the Raiders football team she didn’t want anyone dressed in black for her.
