The flag-draped casket of Army Sgt. Kayla Deen is brought into Lipp & Sullivan Funeral Directors in Marysville on Tuesday, March 17, following a community procession held in her honor. Residents gathered nearby to welcome the Yuba County service member home and pay tribute to her service. Photo courtesy of the K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry of Lutheran Church

MARYSVILLE, CA (MPG) - Yuba County residents lined the corner of Seventh and D streets in Marysville on March 17 to welcome home Army Sgt. Kayla Deen, a local service member remembered as a hometown hero. The procession took place in front of Lipp & Sullivan Funeral Directors as Deen’s body was transported by hearse from Sacramento to Marysville after being flown into the region.

Deen, a Yuba County native, joined the military in 2019 and served in the Army until her death on March 3. Officials have not publicly released details surrounding her death, though it was noted that she was stationed in Colorado at the time and did not die in combat.

The event was organized by Tri-Counties Blue Star Moms, along with local members of the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars, who invited the community to come out in support of Deen’s family and to help give her a proper welcome home.

Community members gathered with American flags, stood in salute and paid quiet tribute as the procession passed. Volunteers with the K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry of the Lutheran Church were also present, offering emotional support through therapy dogs and words of encouragement for those in attendance.

The turnout reflected the community’s respect for Deen’s service and its desire to stand beside her family during a time of loss.