Dorothea Celeste Wilson, a weekend news anchor at WAPT in Jackson, Mississippi, unexpectedly died from a heart attack. She was 42.
Wilson had only recently started her new role at WAPT, but in that short time, she made a positive impact on those around her and on her craft.
Current and former news stations speak out following Wilson’s passing
In a statement, the news station shared thoughts and prayers to everyone who adored Wilson, including her friends and loved ones.
“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 said. “All of us here at 16 WAPT are heartbroken by this sudden loss, and our thoughts are with Celeste’s family and friends.”
Wilson began her broadcasting career at the CBS affiliate KNOE in Monroe, Louisiana, after earning her master’s degree in journalism from the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication at Arizona State University, according to WAPT.
She also worked at KARK in Little Rock, Arkansas, as a reporter and anchor for the morning team from October 2023 to August 2024. The station also shared a statement in light of Wilson’s passing.
“Team 20 is saddened by this loss, and our prayers are with her colleagues, friends and family members,” the station said.
