Waverly, Ohio Mourns the Loss of 17-Year-Old Jocey Tackett: A Bright Spirit Taken Too Soon After Battle with Illness

Waverly, OH — April 15, 2025 — The Waverly City School District and the surrounding community are in mourning following the tragic passing of 17-year-old Jocey Tackett, a high school student who touched the hearts of all who knew her. Jocey, described as a bright spirit, a kind-hearted friend, and a student who brought joy wherever she went, passed away after a courageous and prolonged battle with a series of serious illnesses, including Flu A, pneumonia, and sepsis.

Jocey’s passing has left an overwhelming sense of grief within the tight-knit Waverly community, where she was well-loved by classmates, teachers, and family members. Her legacy as a compassionate and vibrant young woman will live on in the hearts of everyone who was fortunate enough to know her.

According to family members, Jocey’s illness began with symptoms consistent with the flu, but her condition quickly worsened over the course of several weeks. Doctors diagnosed her with Flu A, which then led to pneumonia and eventually sepsis, a life-threatening infection. Despite receiving intensive medical care and fighting bravely against the illness, Jocey succumbed to her health complications on April 14, 2025.

“It’s impossible to put into words the kind of person Jocey was,” said her mother, Michelle Tackett, in a statement released by the family. “She was the light of our lives, and she brought so much happiness to everyone she encountered. I am heartbroken to know that I’ll never see her smile or hear her laugh again. But I’m comforted by the fact that she will always be remembered as someone who made the world a better place.”

Jocey’s bright personality and infectious energy were well-known throughout Waverly High School. Whether participating in class discussions, supporting her friends, or engaging in extracurricular activities, Jocey had a way of making everyone around her feel special. She was a member of the school’s cheerleading team, where her enthusiasm and leadership were unmatched. Her passion for sports, particularly for cheering on her school’s teams, was evident in everything she did.

“She was the kind of student who made everyone feel welcome, and her positive attitude was contagious,” said Waverly High School Principal James Roberts. “Jocey was an incredible student, friend, and athlete. She always brought light to every room she walked into, and her absence leaves a hole that will be felt for a long time.”

In addition to her academic and athletic pursuits, Jocey was known for her deep compassion. She volunteered at local charity events and was always looking for ways to help those in need. Her kind-hearted nature made her a favorite among her peers, and her ability to lift the spirits of others will not be forgotten.

“She had such a big heart,” said Emily Rogers, one of Jocey’s closest friends. “Whenever someone was having a tough time, Jocey was there to listen and offer support. She just had this way of making people feel better, even on their hardest days. Losing her feels like losing a part of myself.”

Jocey’s family, friends, and classmates have come together to honor her memory and celebrate her life. In the days following her passing, a memorial was established at Waverly High School, where students and staff have left flowers, notes, and other tributes in remembrance of the young woman who touched so many lives.

The Tackett family has also announced plans for a public memorial service to be held on April 18, 2025, at Waverly High School, where Jocey’s life and legacy will be celebrated. “We want to invite the community to join us as we remember Jocey and reflect on all the beautiful moments she shared with us,” said Jocey’s father, Thomas Tackett. “We know she’s in a better place now, but the pain of losing her will never go away.”

In the wake of Jocey’s passing, many in the community have come forward to express their sorrow and offer their support to the Tackett family. Social media has been flooded with tributes from friends, classmates, and teachers, all recalling the impact Jocey had on their lives.

“Jocey was more than just a classmate or a teammate. She was a true friend,” said her cheerleading coach, Sarah Lewis. “Her positivity, her spirit, and her love for others were unparalleled. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness and love that we will carry with us forever.”

Jocey’s passing has also raised awareness about the importance of health education, particularly around the dangers of severe illnesses such as Flu A, pneumonia, and sepsis. Local healthcare professionals have urged the community to take flu symptoms seriously, particularly in light of the complications Jocey faced. Medical experts emphasize the need for early intervention and treatment, as well as the importance of maintaining good hygiene practices during flu season.

“The loss of Jocey is a tragedy, but it also serves as a reminder of the serious nature of the illnesses that affect our community,” said Dr. Karen Mitchell, a local physician. “We want to encourage people to take steps to protect their health, especially during flu season, and to seek medical attention if they experience severe symptoms.”

As Waverly comes to terms with this heartbreaking loss, Jocey’s memory will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of those who knew her. Whether it was her radiant smile, her passion for life, or her boundless generosity, Jocey made an indelible mark on everyone she encountered.

The Waverly City School District has announced that grief counseling will be available to students and staff in the coming weeks, as many continue to cope with the emotional toll of losing a beloved peer. The district is also exploring ways to honor Jocey’s memory through scholarships or other initiatives that will allow her legacy of kindness and compassion to live on for generations to come.

Jocey’s family, friends, and community will continue to hold her close in their hearts, cherishing the beautiful memories she leaves behind. While her life was tragically cut short, her spirit will forever shine brightly in Waverly and beyond.

For those who wish to contribute to a memorial fund in Jocey’s honor, details can be found on the family’s website Jocey Tackett Memorial Fund.