Anderson died after the stillbirth of her daughter, an obituary confirmed.
Krystal "Krissy" Anderson, a former cheerleader for the Kansas City Chiefs, died on March 20 of sepsis following the stillbirth of her daughter, Charlotte Willow Anderson, at 21 weeks. She was 40.
According to her obituary, the former cheerleader died "unexpectedly" on March 20, shortly after she delivered her stillborn daughter. A GoFundMe set up in her honor says Anderson's "fight with sepsis led to organ failure, and she was placed on life support." She then "underwent three surgeries, but the source of infection remained elusive."
"In the early hours of March 20, surrounded by her devoted family, sweet Krissy passed away," the tribute continued. "Her radiant smile could light up the darkest room, and her sassy responses never failed to bring laughter and joy. She loved with her whole heart, leaving an imprint on everyone fortunate enough to know her."
Following the family tragedy, her husband, Clayton William Anderson, told local outlet Fox4 that he feels "lost" after losing his wife and daughter. "There's a lot of people in this house and it feels empty," he said.
The Kansas City Chiefs cheerleaders, whom Anderson worked with for 10 seasons at the Arrowhead Stadium, paid tribute to Krystal's memory on Instagram.
"We are deeply saddened by the recent passing of CC alum Krystal. Krissy cheered with us for over 100 games from 2006-2011 and 2013-2016. During that time, she attended the Pro Bowl as the Chiefs representative in 2015, served as a captain of her team, cheered during the London game, and visited our troops around the world, including in Iraq, Kuwait, and throughout the United States," the post's caption reads.
It continues, "She was loved and adored by her teammates, fans, and strangers who were never strangers for long. After her time as a cheerleader, she continued to share her love of dance and Chiefs Cheer by serving in an alumni role on gameday, practices, and at events. We will miss her kind spirit, joyful energy, and her sparkle."
The squad notes they'll share how they plan to "honor Krystal's legacy" later. "Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and loved ones. We will cherish every moment we had with her," the post concludes.
According to her obituary, Anderson worked as a yoga instructor and software engineer after cheering for the Chiefs from 2006-2011 and 2013-2016.
While working as an engineer at Oracle Health, Anderson was awarded a patent for developing software that assesses the risk of postpartum hemorrhage.
"Krystal radiated joy and laughter to everyone she encountered," the obituary reads. "She was passionate about philanthropy, working with Big Brothers and Big Sisters of KC, Gabriella's Little Library, and the First Hand Foundation. She fiercely advocated for Black women in STEM and women's health."
The GoFundMe aims to "help cover the medical expenses incurred during [Krystal's] fight, contribute to a meaningful memorial service, and establish a legacy fund. This fund will support causes and initiatives that were close to Krissy's heart. Let's ensure that her name lives on, not only in our memories but also in the positive actions we take in her honor. Together, we can continue the magic she brought into our lives and make a difference for others."
It's more than reached its goal of $25,000, having raised over $67,000 at time of publication.
In addition to daughter Charlotte, Anderson was preceded in death by son James Charles, who also died in infancy.
Anderson is survived by her husband, Clayton, parents Bertha and Burnette (BJ) Johnson, brother Corey Johnson, grandmother Carrie Banks, and several other extended relatives and in-laws.
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