Lesley Swick Van Ness was a former news anchor and reporter who worked for WGEM-TV in Illinois for 13 years. She was also a corporate recruiter for Quincy Media and Gray Television, two media companies that own several TV stations across the country. She was a beloved colleague, friend, and family member who touched many lives with her professionalism, kindness, and humor. However, on April 10, 2023, she passed away unexpectedly at the age of 42. What was Lesley Swick Van Ness cause of death? And how did her family and fans react to her sudden demise? In this article, we will try to answer these questions and more.
The Circumstances of Her Death
According to various sources, Lesley Swick Van Ness was on vacation with her husband Tom and their two sons in Naples, Florida, when she fell ill on April 6, 2023. She was taken to a hospital, where she remained until her death on April 10, 2023. The exact details of her illness and the cause of her death have not been revealed by her family or the authorities. However, some reports have speculated that she may have suffered from a heart attack or a stroke.
Jennifer Dale, the vice president of recruiting at Gray Television, confirmed Lesley’s death in a statement to Muddy River News on April 12, 2023. She said, “It is with a very heavy heart that we share some devastating news with you. Lesley Van Ness, who we have been so fortunate to have as part of the Gray family, passed away this (Monday) morning.” She also asked for prayers for Lesley’s husband and sons.
Lesley’s funeral was held on April 17, 2023, at St. John’s Anglican Parish in Quincy, Illinois. The service was not open to the public due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but it was live-streamed online for those who wanted to pay their respects.
The Tributes to Her Memory
Lesley’s death shocked and saddened many people who knew her personally or professionally. Her former colleagues at WGEM-TV paid tribute to her during a special segment on April 12, 2023. They remembered her as a talented journalist, a leader in the newsroom, and a friend who always had a smile on her face. They also shared some of their favorite memories and stories of working with her.
Many other people also expressed their condolences and admiration for Lesley on social media platforms, such as Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. They praised her for her achievements, her personality, and her impact on their lives. Some of them also shared photos and videos of Lesley with them or their families.
Lesley’s husband Tom also posted a heartfelt message on his Facebook page on April 14, 2023. He thanked everyone for their support and love during this difficult time. He wrote, “Lesley was my everything. She was my best friend, my soulmate, my partner in crime, my rock, my queen. She was the most amazing wife and mother I could ever ask for. She made me a better man and gave me two beautiful boys who are my pride and joy. She was the light of my life and I will always love her with all my heart.”
He also said that he was proud of Lesley’s accomplishments and legacy. He wrote, “Lesley was a remarkable woman who achieved so much in her short life. She was a brilliant journalist who informed and entertained millions of viewers with her stories. She was a passionate recruiter who created opportunities for aspiring journalists across the country. She was a generous philanthropist who supported many causes and charities that were close to her heart. She was an inspiration to everyone who met her and a role model for many young women who wanted to follow their dreams.”
He also said that he would honor Lesley’s memory by continuing to raise their sons with love and values. He wrote, “Lesley’s spirit will always live on in our sons Lauryn and Isaiah. They are her legacy and they are our future. They have inherited her intelligence, her beauty, her charisma, and her kindness. They are strong and resilient like their mother and they will make her proud every day. I will do everything in my power to protect them, guide them, and love them as she would have wanted me to.”
He also asked for privacy and respect from the media and the public as he and his family grieved for their loss. He wrote,
“I appreciate all the messages of sympathy and support that we have received from our friends,
family,
and fans.
However,
I also ask that you respect our privacy and let us mourn in peace.
Please do not contact us or bother us with questions or requests.
Please do not spread rumors or false information about Lesley’s death.
Please do not use her name or image for your own gain or agenda.
Please just let us be and let us heal.”
The Conclusion
Lesley Swick Van Ness was a former news anchor and reporter who died unexpectedly on April 10, 2023, at the age of 42. The cause of her death has not been disclosed, but it was reported that she fell ill while on vacation with her family in Florida. Her death was confirmed by her employer, Gray Television, and mourned by her former co-workers, friends, fans, and family. She was remembered as a successful journalist, a loving wife and mother, and a wonderful person who made a difference in the world. She left behind a legacy of excellence, compassion, and joy that will never be forgotten.
