Artist and illustrator Keturah Bobo passed away last week following a battle with an undisclosed illness. Bobo’s family revealed the sad news in an Instagram post last Friday. She’s survived by her husband, actor Trai Byers, and the couple’s young son.
“With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved Keturah, who left us after a courageous battle with longterm illness,” the post read. “To those who truly knew her, Keturah was a deeply private soul. We ask that you honor her memory in the ways she loved most—through art, music, color, and human connection.”
Bobo was described as “a brilliant artist, a devoted friend, and a radiant source of joy and inspiration” for her friends and family. “Though her time with us was way too short, her creativity, laughter, and light live on—in her art and the hearts of everyone that knew her.”
The tribute noted that a deep love for her family was at the core of everything Keturah created, and that she drew strength and inspiration from her closest relationships and loved ones. It added that details about a celebration of life would be shared in the coming weeks.
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“While we mourn her physical absence, Keturah’s vision, passion, and spirit will continue to touch lives for years to come,” the post concluded.
Bobo was perhaps best known for illustrating the children’s book I Am Enough, written by Caymanian-American actress Grace Byers. She also illustrated Byers’ follow-up, I Believe I Can.
“I want to make sure my son sees characters that represent who he is or who he could potentially be,” Bobo told Columbus, Ohio-based Matter News in April 2024, “And you don’t realize how important that idea is unless you don’t have it, you know what I mean?”
In the wake of Bobo’s passing, the tributes also began pouring out online. Author and educator Charnaie Gordon shared on Instagram that the illustrator’s radiant artwork had touched so many hearts.
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“Her art reminded children everywhere that they are worthy, capable, and enough just as they are,” Gordon wrote. “Through every brushstroke, Keturah captured the beauty, confidence, and power of Black joy and childhood in a way that will continue to inspire generations.”
“Though she’s no longer with us, her legacy lives on in the pages of her books and in the hearts of everyone who’s ever seen themselves reflected in her work,” she added. “Thank you, Keturah, for painting a world where every child could feel seen.”
