Kelsey Elizabeth Flanigan

Kelsey Elizabeth Flanigan entered her next act on Friday, February 18, 2022. She was surrounded by her loving family.

Born January 18, 1991, in Raritan Township NJ, Kelsey is the daughter of James F. and Dianne (O’Donnell) Flanigan.

Her life was cut short by illness, but it was a life well-lived. Regardless of the challenges Kelsey faced, she maintained her youthful joy and silliness. She also possessed the wisdom of many lifetimes. Kelsey valued the people in her life and always encouraged others to be themselves in her presence. She was a thoughtful listener who bravely opened her heart to others, this resulted in her building friendships all over the world. Anyone who met her was touched by her light and was usually left laughing. Kelsey was hilarious and her laugh was contagious.

Kelsey never stopped trying to live, trying to grow and learn, trying to pursue her dreams. A graduate of Rutgers University and lover of indie bands, she was a gifted writer, director and performer. Kelsey’s well of ideas was endless and she inspired creativity in those around her. Visually gifted, she was always taking photographs and often found perspectives others missed. Kelsey was an inventive cook and baker who, thankfully, shared her creations with her loved ones. She volunteered time to numerous organizations over the years but cared deeply for the well-being of other humans, specifically children, and the preservation of the earth’s natural beauty and resources.

During a formative summer, spent living and working between Barcelona and Florence, Kelsey became enamored with traveling and learning about the world. After her initial diagnosis and treatment for brain cancer in 2014, she relocated to Los Angeles to pursue her dream of a career in entertainment. Through everything, Kelsey never stopped traveling and made it to five continents. Whenever she heard of someone planning a trip to a place she’d been, she eagerly shared recommendations, especially for delicious places to eat. Kelsey didn’t just survive cancer, she thrived.

Kelsey will forever be missed by her parents, Jim and Dianne Flanigan, her brother, Brendan, her sister, Caitlin, brother-in-law, Jordan, and nephew/Godson, Aidan, as well as her grandmother, many aunts, uncles, cousins, and loving friends around the globe.

A party in honor of her 31 years is planned for a future date. In the meantime, donations in her memory are most welcome. Project Write Now is a New Jersey based non-profit organization transforming individuals, organizations, and communities through writing. Kelsey loved KEXP Radio, a listener-powered, non-profit arts organization. The Musella Foundation For Brain Tumor Research & Information, Inc, is a nonprofit public charity dedicated to helping brain tumor patients through emotional and financial support, education, advocacy and raising money for brain tumor research.

Even on her worst day, Kelsey never wasted a minute. In her honor, everyone who loves her encourages you to do the same.

Funeral arrangements and cremation services are under the direction of Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home, 147 Main Street, Flemington NJ 08822. For further information or to leave an online condolence, please visit www.holcombefisher.com.