Cheslie Kryst's Parents Hold Public Vigil To Mark Her 31st Birthday

Parents of the late Cheslie Kryst are holding a public vigil to mark what would have been their daughter’s 31st birthday.

On January 30 of this year, the model and “Extra!” correspondent took her own life after a lengthy struggle with depression. Her death shocked many in the industry, as many knew her for her bright smile and upbeat personality.

In a statement, Cheslie Kryst’s parents, April and David Simpkins, said, “On April 28, Cheslie would have turned 31 years old.” Even before her birthday, they acknowledged, “we are already experiencing a remarkable outpouring of love and support for our Cheslie, for which we are tremendously grateful.”

“Many have asked how best to honor Cheslie's memory on her birthday,” they continued. “This is an individual decision, and we would not presume to decide how any fan, friend, or former colleague should remember Cheslie or memorialize her on her upcoming birthday.”

However, the couple did share the four “approved organizations” that are set up to receive charitable donations in her name. Those four organizations include:

• Dress For Success – The Cheslie Kryst Women's Advancement Fund.
• Wake Forest University School of Law – The Cheslie C. Kryst Social Justice Scholarship
• University of South Carolina – The Cheslie C. Kryst Scholarship Fund
• The Dean's List – The Cheslie C. Kryst Woman In Media Award

Her parents have also asked that “no one should seek to profit from the use of Cheslie's name, likeness, image, or memory without prior authorization from her estate.”

“Seeking to profit improperly from our daughter's memory is not only not authorized and thus unlawful, but it could also undermine her estate's current and future charitable goals, initiatives, and activities,” they added.

Extra released a statement, saying, “Our hearts are broken. Cheslie was not just a vital part of our show, she was a beloved part of our Extra family and touched the entire staff.  Our deepest condolences to all her family and friends.”

Priyanka Hemanti Bhatttweeted, “My heart is heavy writing this, Rest in peace Cheslie. Again people will talk about how important mental health is and then trash talk each other, tear each other down.. it's sad how young people are giving up on life. It wasn't ur age to go, this is so sad.”

Autumn Childress tweeted, “Woke up still with this heavy on my spirit. Prayers for her family, her peace. Prayers for everyone fighting silent battles day in and day out. You’re loved… you’re so loved.”

Sharron Meltontweeted, “Still difficult to comprehend the death of #CheslieKryst Miss USA 2019. Like many in the pageant community, I was stunned. Rest In Peace & Paradise Queen. Be w/ her family & check on your own family & friends because #Depression is real & you never know what others go through.”

Bernice King, the CEO of Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change, tweeted, “Such incredibly sad news about #CheslieKryst. Depression creates deep despair & an overwhelming illusion that there’s no way forward in life. Remember: looking good & doing good things doesn’t = feeling/thinking “good.” Check on YOU, too. National Suicide Hotline: 800-273-8255.”