With catastrophes occurring everywhere from Oklahoma and Boston to Southern California and Chicago, it is especially tragic to hear about the loss of sophomore Ashley Wilson. Wilson passed away Tuesday, May 21, in Miami Children’s Hospital after a two-year-long fight with Leukemia.

“She was a very outgoing person,” longtime friend and sophomore Tashiera Johnson said. “She was very strong and always knew what to say in any situation.”

Teachers and peers remember how much she enjoyed her classes, particularly the arts and Early Childhood Education.

“[Wilson] began exploring art and it was a shame she could not go further in this path,” art teacher Dr. Solomon said. “It came as a shock and I wish that I had more of an opportunity to help her.”

Wilson left school during the first semester because of her illness, she continued to keep in touch with her school friends. She hoped to return to Palmetto one day.

“She felt like she could beat [the cancer]. From time to time, she would feel sick but that didn’t stop her because she was very strong,” Johnson said. “She talked about coming back to school and seeing all her friends. She hoped we would get dresses and everything and go to Prom.”

Wilson’s friends and teachers will remember her by her personality.

“Ashley Wilson was a dynamic young lady whose fiesty spirit and love [were] evident in everything she did,” said Ms. Michelle Uhle, an Early Childhood Education teacher. “She had a beautiful soul and would always look for the best in people. She was taken much too soon but I know that she touch so many and will be always in their hearts as she will be in mine.”