Indiana Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton and his fiancée Jade Jones are mourning Makenzi Kern, who died during Jade’s bachelorette trip in St. Barts earlier this month. Both shared tributes as Kern’s death was reported as tied to health complications.
Indiana Pacers NBA star Tyrese Haliburton and his fiancée Jade Jones are grieving after a friend died during Jade’s bachelorette trip.
Makenzi Kern, 26, reportedly passed away due to “health complications” while celebrating with Jade, 28, earlier this month in St. Barts. The news quickly spread beyond their circles, bringing national attention to a trip meant for celebration.
Tmz also reported that Makenzi’s family does not suspect foul play, drugs or alcohol.
Tyrese turned to social media to remember “Kenz.” In an Instagram Story, he wrote: “We will always love and miss you Kenz,” adding, “Forever thankful for you.”
Jade Jones posted a lengthy tribute on Instagram. describing how her bond with Kern began and how their friendship changed her life. She wrote that everyone knows how “Kenzi and my story started. ” and that she “never knew our hilarious hair pulling fight would’ve turned into a friendship that has changed my life forever.”.
In her post. Jade called Kern “the funniest. goofiest person I’ve ever met. ” saying Kern was always making her “belly laugh.” She also shared that Kern had a gift for bringing happiness into every room. and she reflected on memories she said would stay with her—summer days living in Kern’s city. “leaving our mark on the capital district. ” running around cars at stop lights. cheering on the bandshell together. and obsessing over “The Office.”.
Jade remembered lighter moments too: dancing on countertops to Hannah Montana. and watching Kern light up whenever she got to be on a boat. She also emphasized how Kern supported Tyrese and Jade through major milestones. calling her “our biggest cheerleader” who showed up for her in every big moment.
Jade wrote that she can’t imagine their wedding day without Kern celebrating with them. adding that “The day will not be the same without her. but I know she will show us she is there somehow.” She said Kern has been there “for all of our moments since the day I met Tyrese. ” and that Kern would live on in “my memories. my laughter. my stories. and in the person I am because of her.”.
She ended with a promise that she would keep remembering Kern with love. writing: “I am forever grateful that I got to love someone as truly special as Kenzi. and to have been loved back by her.” Jade added. “Kenz was truly a light in this world. ” and wrote: “I love you forever until the end of time Kenzi. You are truly so beautiful inside and out & a once-in-a-lifetime kind of friend. Thank you for always showing up for me. for making me laugh until I cry. and for being such an unforgettable part of my life.”.
Jade concluded with the message, “I’ll always miss you but I know you’ll be with me, wherever I go. ‘See ya’.”
Tyrese Haliburton Jade Jones Makenzi Kern bachelorette trip St. Barts Indiana Pacers Instagram tribute Kenz