Mississippi State University’s Athletic Department confirmed Alex Wilcox, a freshman softball player from Brantley, Alabama, passed away Monday after battling ovarian cancer in a press release.
“Alex Wilcox will always be remembered by her smile,” MSU softball head coach Vann Stuedeman said. “The bravest, most courageous young lady I have ever known went through the toughest battle with a smile on her face every day.”
This past year, MSU wore teal uniforms, the color for ovarian cancer awareness, every Tuesday game to raise awareness and show their support for Wilcox’s fight. Stuedeman said the grace Wilcox showed while fighting the disease was heroic.
“Our hearts are broken for her family and all of those that loved her so dearly,” Stuedeman said. “The Mississippi State softball family will strive to humbly honor her warrior mentality and faith-filled heart. She will be forever missed.”
Wilcox was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2015, but continued to play softball, leading Brantley High School to several state championships and signing to play for MSU. Wilcox was also named in the SEC Academic Honor Roll this spring.
“Tonight with heavy hearts we are saddened by the loss of one of our very own in Alex Wilcox,” MSU Athletic director John Cohen said. “Alex always had a smile on her face, and a positive attitude. We will never forget her presence in the dugout, in the classroom and in the community. Our thoughts and prayers are with Alex, her family, her teammates, her friends and her Mississippi State Family.”