About Payton Emily

Payton Emily Raulerson

June 13, 2011 - December 2, 2024

Payton Emily Raulerson, forever 13, of Crestview, FL was born on June 13th, 2011, at the Eglin Air Force Base in Okaloosa County, FL, She took her life on Monday, December 2nd, 2024.

An 8th grader at Okaloosa STEMM Academy, where she served as the Vice President of the student body, Payton also participated as an active member of the Robotics Club where she could put things together that wouldn't normally be possible. She loved all things science and was wise beyond her years.

While other kids obsessed over social media, she preferred to spend her time doing science projects, drawing, painting, reading or playing outside.

She loved the tech side of the theatre and put in over 400 hours in the past two years helping backstage at StageCrafters Community theatre.

She loved her family and spending time with her friends.

Payton left notes detailing accounts of being bullied. She was known for helping others feel included and seek help, so this event has completely rocked the community and her family.

We are now asking others to do the same. If anyone has any information on her bullying and is willing to speak out, know your voice matters, too.

The Raulerson Family

The Rauly Clan

The Raulerson Family first moved to Florida in 2011 when 7th Group was moved down here from Ft. Bragg, NC. They moved to Yuma, AZ, in 2015, but returned in 2019 and have made Crestview their home.

In this photo, they were featured a little over a year ago in the Crestview Living Magazine highlighting their family. While their story has changed and they have experienced many hardships as a military family, one thing remains steadfast... their resolve to keep fighting for each other is now stronger than ever.

We miss you, Mija.

Eric Raulerson, Father

Eric recently retired from a career as a Green Beret with the United States Amy. When Eric retired from the 7SFG(A), he took the reins of parenting and quickly became Payton's sidekick. Not only did Eric and Payton look alike, they also shared the same mannerisms and a secret handshake.

Melissa Raulerson, Mother

Melissa is the Field Director and Property Manager at ONE Family Property Services, owner of Bristles & Broomsticks, and entrepreneur. Payton and her mother, both Type A personalities, shared a deep love of theater and the performing arts. Payton was her mom's helper and Mel's little Mija. Payton spent most days when with her mother helping her with her lines for shows at the Theatre and staying by her side backstage.

Kaelyn Raulerson, Sister

Payton's favorite big sister, Kaelyn, is a student at Northwest Florida State College. Kaelyn loves choir and performing. She wishes to pursue a career in music.

Kaelyn and Payton were like most siblings and Kaelyn was the one to spend the final moments with Payton trying to save her life until help arrived.

Kaelyn hopes to help siblings learn to navigate tragedy and wishes to normalize mental health discussions to save lives.

Joseph Raulerson, Brother

Payton's Irish twin and favorite brother Joseph, is just a year younger than her. Joseph also has a love for the theatre, playing video games, and singing.

Joseph is autistic (high-functioning) and Payton spent a lot of her time helping him read and learn.

Joseph is still working to process all that has happened and hopes to help other brothers learn it is okay to speak out and not be bullied.