On August 27, 2025, the Jackson, Mississippi, community and the broader journalism world were struck with profound sadness as news broke of the sudden death of Celeste Wilson, a beloved weekend anchor for ABC affiliate 16 WAPT. At just 42 years old, Wilson passed away due to a heart attack, leaving behind a legacy of professionalism, warmth, and dedication to storytelling. Her untimely passing has left colleagues, viewers, and friends in shock, as tributes pour in celebrating her contributions to broadcast journalism and her vibrant spirit.
A Rising Star in Broadcast Journalism
Celeste Wilson, also known as Dorothea Celeste Wilson, was a seasoned journalist whose career was marked by a deep commitment to her craft. Born and raised in New Orleans, Louisiana, Wilson’s journey into journalism began with her education. She earned a bachelor’s degree from Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, Louisiana, before pursuing a master’s degree in journalism from the prestigious Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication at Arizona State University.
Her academic foundation equipped her with the skills to excel in broadcast journalism, a field she entered with passion and purpose. Wilson’s professional journey began at the CBS affiliate KNOE in Monroe, Louisiana, where she honed her skills as a reporter and anchor. Her work at KNOE showcased her ability to connect with audiences and tell stories that resonated with local communities.
Over the years, she worked at several other stations, including NBC affiliate KARK in Little Rock, Arkansas, where she served as a morning reporter and anchor from October 2023 to August 2024. During her tenure at KARK, she was described as a “bright spot” on the morning show, bringing energy and authenticity to her broadcasts. Wilson also served as one of two state hosts for a weekly broadcast on a PBS network, further demonstrating her versatility and dedication to public service journalism.
In 2025, Wilson joined 16 WAPT in Jackson, Mississippi, as a weekend anchor, a role she embraced with enthusiasm. Her biography on the WAPT website highlighted her deep ties to Mississippi and her excitement to explore Jackson while sharing the state’s stories.
Despite her short time at the station, Wilson quickly made an impression with her professionalism and ability to connect with viewers. Her final broadcast on August 25, 2025, featured an interview with Mississippi U.S. representatives at the Girl Scouts of Mississippi Women of Distinction Induction breakfast, a testament to her commitment to highlighting community achievements.
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Beyond her work in journalism, Wilson was a multifaceted individual with a passion for acting. Over the past decade, she performed in plays and films for a close friend, bringing her creativity and dedication to every project. Her ability to balance her journalism career with her artistic pursuits spoke to her dynamic personality and unwavering work ethic. Colleagues and friends remembered her as someone who approached every assignment with passion, whether she was reporting on local events or performing on stage.
A Heartfelt Impact on Colleagues and Community
Though Celeste Wilson’s time at 16 WAPT was brief, her impact was profound. Colleagues at the station described her as a beacon of light, whose warmth and kindness touched everyone she met. WAPT anchor Megan West shared a heartfelt tribute on Facebook, recalling a recent interaction with Wilson at the Girl Scouts of Mississippi Women of Distinction Induction breakfast.
West wrote, “She was new to our team and so lovely. 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.” This reflection captures the personal connection Wilson forged with her colleagues, even in a short time.
WAPT meteorologist Christana Kay echoed these sentiments, expressing the shock and grief felt by the newsroom. “It is a numb feeling. We are in shock. We are heartbroken. From seeing Celeste Monday to hearing the news of a heart attack, it does not seem real that this happened,” Kay wrote.
Another meteorologist, Katie Garch, added, “Heartbreaking news. To have known her was a blessing. May she rest easy. Sending love and deepest condolences to the family and friends.” These tributes underscore the deep sense of loss felt by those who worked alongside Wilson, who was known for her ability to light up a room with her presence.
Wilson’s former colleagues at KARK and KNOE also paid tribute to her memory. KARK described her as a “KARK family member” whose contributions to their morning show were unforgettable. KNOE wrote, “KNOE is mourning the unexpected death of our former reporter, Dorothea Cleeste Wilson.
Our thoughts are with her friends and family.” Domonique Benn of KSLA, a sister station to KNOE, added, “Prayers for family, friends, and coworkers of Celeste Wilson. She worked at our sister station in Monroe, LA, before recently taking a job in Jackson, MS.” These messages reflect the widespread admiration for Wilson across the journalism community.
Viewers also expressed their grief, with one writing, “Celeste was a lovely lady and an excellent fit for WAPT.” Another viewer commented, “We all take life for granted. A young beautiful woman has gone home to be with the Lord, I’m praying for her family.” Wilson’s ability to connect with audiences was evident in the outpouring of support from the Jackson community and beyond. Her commitment to faith, family, and community, as noted in her WAPT biography, resonated deeply with those who watched her broadcasts.
A Legacy of Faith, Family, and Storytelling
Celeste Wilson’s sudden passing at the age of 42 has left a void in the hearts of her family, friends, and the Jackson community. As a mother of one, Wilson was deeply devoted to her family, and her faith played a central role in her life. Her WAPT biography described her as having a “strong commitment to faith, family, community, and deep Mississippi ties,” qualities that defined her both personally and professionally. Her ability to weave these values into her journalism made her a trusted voice in the communities she served.
Wilson’s death from a heart attack came as a shock, with no prior health issues reported, making her loss all the more devastating. Her final broadcast, just one day before her passing, highlighted her dedication to sharing stories that uplifted and inspired. The Girl Scouts of Mississippi Women of Distinction Induction breakfast was one such story, showcasing her passion for spotlighting individuals and organizations making a positive impact.
Tributes from friends outside of journalism also highlighted Wilson’s multifaceted life. Lydia Wright-Hamilton, a close friend, shared a moving tribute on Facebook, writing, “I can’t stop the tears from flowing and the memories from flooding my mind. D. Celeste Wilson was not only a cherished cast member but also a truly valuable friend to me.
For the past 10 years, she performed in my plays and films, always embracing the vision and faithfully giving all. She was beautiful on and off the camera. I will miss this powerful, gifted, and God-fearing woman.” This tribute underscores Wilson’s ability to leave a lasting impression in every sphere of her life.
The journalism community and the Jackson area continue to mourn Wilson’s loss, with many reflecting on the fragility of life. Her death serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictability of health crises, even for someone as young and vibrant as Wilson. While details about her funeral arrangements have not been publicly shared, her legacy as a storyteller, journalist, and community advocate endures. Her colleagues at WAPT, KARK, KNOE, and beyond have vowed to honor her memory by continuing the work she was so passionate about.
Celeste Wilson’s life was a testament to the power of storytelling and the impact of a kind and dedicated spirit. Her contributions to journalism, her devotion to her family, and her deep ties to Mississippi will not be forgotten. As the Jackson community grieves, they also celebrate the light she brought into their lives, a light that will continue to shine through the stories she told and the lives she touched.