The Jackson, Mississippi, journalism community is grappling with shock after the sudden death of Celeste Wilson, the weekend anchor for 16 WAPT News.
Wilson, only 42, passed away from a heart attack, according to the station.
Her death comes just months after joining WAPT, where colleagues said her professionalism and warmth quickly left a mark. Wilson’s passing has not only stunned the newsroom but also raised broader questions about how a life so full of promise could be cut short so suddenly.
A graduate of Arizona State University with a Master’s degree in journalism, Wilson began her career at the CBS affiliate in Monroe, Louisiana, before stepping into her role in Jackson.
She was described by WAPT as a journalist committed to her craft, whose dedication was evident even in her brief time with the station.
The tragedy has left colleagues and viewers alike searching for meaning. On social media, WAPT’s tribute struck a somber note: “We have very sad news. Our colleague, Celeste Wilson who recently joined WAPT as our weekend anchor, has passed away. All of us are heartbroken by this sudden loss, and our thoughts are with Celeste’s family and friends.”
Though her cause of death has been confirmed as a heart attack, the abruptness of her passing at a relatively young age has left many stunned.
The newsroom that once celebrated her arrival now finds itself mourning her absence, grappling with the fragility of life and the unanswered questions it leaves behind.
Wilson’s legacy lives on through the stories she told, the communities she served, and the colleagues who will carry forward her dedication to journalism.
