The announcement came Saturday morning in a heartfelt message from her younger sister, who reflected not only on Kelly’s career but also on the lifelong bond they shared as daughters of Hollywood legends Tony Curtis and Janet Leigh.
Jamie Lee Curtis Shares Heartfelt Farewell to Sister Kelly Curtis
Jamie Lee Curtis used her tribute to paint a portrait of the woman she knew away from the spotlight. Opening her message with “A warm aloha to my older sister, Kelly Lee Curtis,” the Oscar winner revealed that her sister died “in her home. In nature. At peace.”
Among the memories she chose to highlight was the role Kelly played throughout her life. “She was my first friend and lifelong confidant,” Curtis wrote, describing her sister as both “jaw droppingly beautiful” and a gifted performer. The tribute also offered glimpses into Kelly’s personal passions, from travel and music to thrift shopping, family gatherings, and even Pokémon Go.
Curtis remembered her sister as someone defined by generosity, curiosity, and unwavering opinions. She noted that Kelly would be remembered for her distinctive personality and for the homemade almond crescent cookies that earned her the family nickname “Auntie Cookie.” The post also referenced her pride in her Danish and Hungarian Jewish heritage.
Kelly Curtis built a career that spanned film, television, and theater. She appeared in projects including “Magic Sticks” and “The Devil’s Daughter” and held a regular role during the first season of “The Sentinel.” Television audiences also saw her in series such as “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine” and “Judging Amy.” Beyond acting, she later contributed behind the scenes as a production assistant on films including “Freaky Friday,” “Christmas with the Kranks,” and “You Again.”
The tribute concluded with a farewell that carried special significance within the family. Curtis recalled that Kelly often ended messages with the Hungarian blessing “Isten Veled,” meaning “God is with you.” Echoing those words one final time, she addressed her sister directly: “Isten Veled to my sister of the sun and the moon, my Tai. I’ll see you on down the line.”
