Katrina Ann Clarkson

Katrina Ann Clarkson JD, aged 45 of New Orleans, Louisiana (formerly from Chicago, Illinois and Liberty, Indiana), passed away peacefully on October 21, 2026.. She was born on August 10, 1981 in Indianapolis, Indiana to John Clarkson and Lori (Knollman) Clarkson-Schibley.

Katrina was a woman of remarkable talent, boundless energy, and a personality that could light up a room. From an early age, she pursued many interests with enthusiasm, participating in band, show choir, the Social Studies Academic Team, and Cross-Country at Union County High School, where she graduated in 1999. Outside the classroom, she competed in ice skating and dance competitions and showed horses in local 4-H as well as at the National Level.

She went on to attend the University of Cincinnati, graduating Summa Cum Laude in 2003 with a Bachelor of Arts in History. Along the way, she found her way into the heart of New Orleans Mardi Gras, serving as a Maid of Endymion in 2000 and rising to the Queen of Endymion in 2002. In recognition of this honor, she received the key to the city of New Orleans, Louisiana. This was a sign she was not destined to live a quiet or ordinary life.

Katrina continued her education at DePaul University College of Law in Chicago, Illinois, earning her Juris Doctorate Degree in 2006 and passing the Illinois Bar. She became a member of the Illinois Bar association and built her career as an attorney in Chicago. There, she embraced the city’s social scene, enjoyed boating, and ran the Chicago Marathon multiple times.

Above all, Katrina loved life, adventure, and the people and animals who shared it with her. She had a special love for animals, particularly her cats, who were fortunate enough to have her as their devoted human. Her friends were spread across the country, a testament to the many lives she touched and the connections she made wherever her adventures took her.

Despite the serious illness she faced in recent years, Katrina remained strong and optimistic about her treatment. She faced difficult circumstances with courage and strength, continuing to bring her unmistakable light into the room even in the end.

She is preceded in death by her father, John B. Clarkson MD. She leaves behind her mother Lori (Wayne), brothers Steven (Stacy) and Tristan, nephews Quinn, Larkin, Griffin, and Ashton, as well as her cats Perla, Jazmine, Gato, and Mishka. Donations in her name may be made to the American Transplant Foundation at americantransplantfoundation.org. or The HLH Heroes Foundation, @HLHHF.

A Celebration of Life will be planned at a later date for family and friends.