A beloved Mississippi news anchor — who had only recently joined her television station — died suddenly at age 42, her devastated colleagues announced.
Celeste Wilson, a weekend anchor for WAPT 16 in Jackson, tragically died of a heart attack.
“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,” her network, which also shared the tragic news on air, penned in its announcement Wednesday.
“All of us here at 16 WAPT are heartbroken by this sudden loss, and our thoughts are with Celeste’s family and friends.”
Wilson, a New Orleans native, started her broadcasting career at a CBS affiliate in Monroe, La., after earning her master’s degree in journalism from Arizona State University, according to her bio.
Her passion for storytelling took her to several local news stations. She also co-hosted a weekly PBS program before joining the ABC affiliate in Jackson.
“I can tell you she was an absolute joy to be around — a consummate professional with a smile that would light up a room,” Peter Keith, WAPT 16 president and general manager, said Friday.
“In our newsroom, she brought warmth and high standards, elevating not just stories but also the people around her. She believed journalism is service — showing up, asking fair questions, and giving voice to those too often unheard,” he continued.
“We are grateful for the time we shared, the example she set, and the light she left behind.”
WAPT anchor Megan West also paid tribute to her late colleague, sharing a video on Facebook of Wilson beaming as she conducted an interview at the Girl Scouts of Mississippi Women of Distinction Induction breakfast last week.
She remembered Wilson as a “lovely” person.
“It is such a shock, and our hearts are broken for her family,” West wrote in the caption of her video.
“I treasure the memory of this last, sweet conversation.”
