Lesley Swick Van Ness’s died aged 42 from a “sudden illness” while on vacation with her family, according to reports. Her cause of death was not immediately revealed.
She was married to Thomas Van Ness since June 2, 2012. They tied the knot at St. John’s Anglican Parish in Quincy. They have two sons Sterling Thomas and Cameron Lyle.
Also Read | Why Philip Adams’ father Alonzo Adams is suing South Carolina State University
Van Ness was a former news anchor for the NBC affiliate WGEM in Quincy, Illinois. Gray Television, a company that owns and operates high-quality local television in 113 media markets, acquired Quincy Media – a company that used to own WGEM, in 2021.
Van Ness switched roles and explored the corporate side of the media industry. She most recently worked as the Vice President of Recruiting at Gray Television.
Also Read | What did Shawn Kemp do? Former NBA star charged with first-degree assault for using gun in altercation
“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,” Jennifer Dale, VP of Recruiting at Gray Television said in a statement.
“Lesley had been on vacation with her beautiful family in Florida when she fell ill and was hospitalized last Thursday. Lesley and her husband Tom have two precious young boys. Please keep all of them in your prayers,” Dale added.
Also Read | Boston Marathon Bombing victims: Who were Lingzi Lu, Krystle Campbell, and Martin Richard?
WGEM reported her death saying: “WGEM and the Tri-State community are mourning the loss of one of our own” as Van Ness “passed away from a sudden illness Monday morning while vacationing with her family.”
“She wasn’t afraid to do the dirty work and wasn’t afraid to work the extra hour, especially if it was something that was really impacting the community,” WGEM meteorologist Brian Inman said.