Anna Kepner was a high school senior with her whole life ahead of her. The teen was a cheerleader on the varsity squad at Temple Christian School and loved being with her friends and playing with makeup. She loved the water, and living in Florida was perfect for her. Anna had big dreams, but they ended in a blink when she died aboard the Carnival Horizon cruise ship on November 8, 2025. Her family and community are now mourning a life taken far too soon.
Anna’s family spoke to ABC News following the 18-year-old’s death. They will remember her as a girl with a positive attitude and a strong work ethic. She earned straight A’s in school and loved spending time with friends.
“When she walked into a room, she would light it up,” the family shared. “If you were sad, she’d make you laugh. She would joke around and be the funniest little person in school.”
Family said Anna planned to join the military after graduation and had just started planning her career path. She wanted to help her community as much as possible.
“She was a people person,” her family told ABC News. “She loved being around people. She had that type of energy that just drew you in with her smile and the way she carried herself. She was such an easy person to talk to.”
Anna’s death remains a mystery, but Carnival Cruise Line confirmed the teenager’s passing in a statement obtained by ABC News. “Our focus is on supporting the family of our guest and cooperating with the FBI,” the statement read.
Following Anna’s sudden death, Temple Christian School paid tribute to its beloved student on social media.
“Anna I will deeply miss you. You were a bright, kind-hearted young woman whose presence brought warmth and energy into the classroom. Your curiosity, your gentle spirit, and the way you cared for those around you made a lasting impression on me and on everyone who knew you,” reads a Facebook post by Rich Brunner, a youth pastor at the school.
“I will miss you poking your head in my office to say hello and that turning into a fun 15 minute conversation,” the post continued. “Losing you is heartbreaking, yet I remain grateful for the time I had with you and the privilege of you becoming part of our TCS family. Your absence will be felt every day, but your impact and the memories you created will continue to live on in our hearts. Love, Mr. Brunner.”
Authorities have not released a cause of death or any additional details. Anna’s death remains under investigation.
We can’t imagine how her parents must feel. She was a very special part of their lives. It’s unclear whether the case involves foul play, but if it does, may Anna receive the justice she deserves after her shocking death.
