Beloved Television News Anchor Dies Suddenly at Age 42: ‘Such a Shock’

Celeste Wilson’s career was on the rise. She had just started a job as a television news anchor in Mississippi.

However, her life took a tragic turn when the anchor died suddenly at the age of 42.

Wilson’s station, WAPT-TV, where she was working as a weekend anchor in Jackson, Mississippi, confirmed her death. Her cause of death was a heart attack, according to the station.

“Though Celeste had only been with us a short time, we were already touched by her professionalism, warmth, and dedication to the work of journalism,” the station wrote in a tribute to Wilson.

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Wilson launched “her broadcasting career at the CBS affiliate in Monroe, Louisiana and earned her Master’s degree in journalism from Arizona State University,” according to WAPT.

In a follow-up editorial, the station wrote, “In our newsroom, she brought warmth and high standards, elevating not just stories but also the people around her.”

Megan West, an anchor at the station, remembered Wilson by posting a Facebook video that was recorded just a week before Wilson’s sudden death.

“This video is from just last week,” wrote West.

“My beautiful colleague, Celeste Wilson, showed up to cover the Girl Scouts of Mississippi Women of Distinction Induction breakfast. She was new to our team and so lovely,” she added.

“We chatted about how she was adjusting to morning show hours and life a few hours from her home in Louisiana. Today, I learned she died, unexpectedly, of a heart attack. It is such a shock, and our hearts are broken for her family. ❤️ I treasure the memory of this last, sweet conversation.”

Viewers expressed sadness in the comment thread.

“Just watched her anchor this weekend and she did a fantastic job! Heartbroken for her family and colleagues…praying,” wrote one.

“I am absolutely heartbroken over the loss of Celeste. She was a lovely lady. My thoughts and prayers are with her family and the WAPT family,” wrote another person./