Katelyn Dewberry

Katelyn “Kay” Dewberry was a woman with a vibrant spirit and a deep love for her family and friends. At 31 years old, the Blackshear, Georgia, native was known for her fierce loyalty and the kindness she extended to everyone she met. A passionate and talented cook, Katelyn had built a career as an Executive Chef, a role that allowed her to share her gift with others. Her ultimate dream was to one day own and operate her own food truck, a goal she was actively working toward. Remembered for her laughter and her formidable presence for good, Katelyn was a beloved daughter and a cherished friend whose life was full of promise.

The warm summer evening of Wednesday, July 29, 2020, brought a sudden and devastating turn to Katelyn’s life. In what has been described as a selfless act of courage, she stepped in to protect a child from harm and was shot in the process. The single gunshot wound inflicted a catastrophic injury, and the quiet community of Blackshear was thrown into shock. First responders arrived on the scene and quickly transported Katelyn to a local hospital for initial treatment. Recognizing the severity of her condition, medical personnel arranged for her to be life-flighted to the Orange Park Medical Center Trauma Unit, a specialized facility in Florida, to receive a higher level of care.

For five agonizing days, Katelyn fought valiantly for her life. Her strength and will to live were evident to all as she battled her injuries. Her family and friends clung to hope, rallying around her with unwavering support. A GoFundMe campaign was established to help with the mounting medical expenses, and her community poured out its love and prayers for her recovery. Updates on her courageous struggle were shared, uniting those who knew her in a collective vigil. Despite the heroic efforts of her medical team and the powerful wave of support from her loved ones, Katelyn’s injuries proved insurmountable. She passed away on August 3, 2020. In a final act of profound generosity, Katelyn’s organs were donated, giving the gift of life to others in need.

The investigation into the shooting that claimed Katelyn’s life was swift. The Pierce County Sheriff’s Office and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation worked the case, and their efforts quickly led them to identify a suspect. Matthew Johnsen was arrested and subsequently charged with Katelyn’s murder. The legal process moved forward, and the community watched, hoping for justice for a life taken far too soon. The case brought some measure of closure to Katelyn’s grieving family and friends when Matthew Johnsen ultimately pleaded guilty to his role in her death. He was sentenced to serve 20 years in prison.

While the criminal case has concluded, Katelyn’s memory continues to inspire positive action. Her tragic death left a void in the hearts of those who loved her, but her spirit of generosity and protection endures. Her mother, Deborah Owen, has channeled her grief into advocacy, determined to create a lasting legacy for her daughter. In the years since the tragedy, she has worked to establish The Dew Better Foundation, an organization dedicated to helping victims of gun violence and their families navigate the difficult aftermath of such events.

Katelyn Kay Dewberry is remembered not for the violence that ended her life, but for the love and light she brought into the world. Her story is one of courage, compassion, and a final, life-giving sacrifice. As of late 2024, her family continues to honor her memory through their foundation, ensuring that her name is associated with hope and healing for others who have suffered a similar loss. The community of Blackshear will not forget the vibrant chef whose dreams were cut short, but whose impact continues to be felt through the lives she touched and the lives she saved.