OPINION: This article may contain commentary which reflects the author's opinion.
A well-known anchor at an NBC affiliate in Illinois has died while vacationing with her family in Florida.
Lesley Swick Van Ness, an anchor for WGEM-TV who also served as an executive for its corporate parent, Gray Television, reportedly fell ill on Monday and was hospitalized while vacationing with her husband and their two sons in Florida. She died shortly after.
“In the eyes of a small community, she was a celebrity,” Tom and Neat Brower wrote in response to an online obituary, the New York Post reported.
“It is with a very heavy heart that we share some devastating news with you,” Jennifer Dale, the vice president of recruiting at Gray Television, said in a statement. “Lesley Van Ness, who we have been so fortunate to have as part of the Gray family, passed away this (Monday). 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,” the statement added. “Please keep all of them in your prayers. We will keep everyone posted on arrangements.”
”She was a powerful personality,” said Matt Schmidt, who was one of Van Ness’ colleagues at WGEM-TV. “She could walk into the newsroom and instantly take over. She just had a commanding presence about her. Sitting on the news desk was an awesome experience.”
“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,” said WGEM-TV meteorologist Brian Inman.
NBC anchor Lesley Swick Van Ness, 42, dies while vacationing with family: ‘She was a celebrity’ https://t.co/IMGeXx0Aft pic.twitter.com/IeBksuSQxa
— New York Post (@nypost) April 14, 2023
The New York Post added this about Van Ness’ background:
Van Ness, a graduate of Illinois State University, began her career as a reporter at WGEM-TV, the NBC local affiliate in Quincy, Ill., in 2003, according to her LinkedIn page. In 2006, she transitioned to a weekend anchor position. Two years later, she was anchoring the weekday editions of the evening and late-night newscasts.
Van Ness then moved over to the corporate side of the business. In 2016, she was named talent acquisition specialist for Quincy Media. In 2021, Gray Television acquired Quincy Media — giving the newly merged entity a network of local television stations in 113 markets.
Brian Dorman, a news anchor at CBS Fresno, tweeted: “I’m at a loss for words. Lesley and I grew close this past year as I looked to advance my career. She was quick to make me laugh, offer incredible advice, and she was so passionate about the business! This is shocking.”
Jamie Bittner, a national correspondent for Gray DC News, said: “Heartbreaking loss. Lesley helped recruited me. She was a class act. I hope she knew what she meant to me & countless other journalists who simply needed someone to open a door for them. I’ll always remember her talent, kindness & drive. She will be missed.”
Journalist Bret Buganski tweeted: “Sad to hear about the passing of Lesley Swick Van Ness. One of the 1st people I met as a rookie in Quincy. We were competitors but not only was she a great journalist, she was a better person. Always loved when we sang Don Henley ‘dirty laundry’ at karaoke at the Abbey.”
Whitney Williams, the morning and noon meteorologist at WGEM, wrote: “Heartbroken. You will be greatly missed Lesley. I’ve been thinking back on our time together. Your confidence, spark, charismatic charm, and kindness will never be forgotten. Thank you for always being such a strong leader and a great role model.”
Journalist A.J. Roberts tweeted: “Truly heartbreaking and shocking news today as I learned of the passing of a friend and former colleague. Lesley was such a light. Prayers for her family.”
