GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — A bright light in the lives of everyone she encountered.
That's how those who knew Tessa Stanley want her to be remembered. Stanley, a 17-year-old senior at Forest Hills Eastern High School, was hit and killed by a car in Grand Rapids Township on Monday night.
"A beautiful, welcoming spirit," says Ella Morgan, executive director of Stage GR. "A positive light to all that had the privilege to be around her."
A privilege that Morgan and the rest of the cast and crew at Stage GR got when Stanley first performed with them back in March.
"She played Nemo in our production of Finding Nemo," recalls Morgan.
Right away from her first show, Morgan knew Stanley's future on stage would be bright.
"I could go on and on about her insane talent as an actor, singer and dancer," she says.
But it was behind the scenes where Morgan says Stanley really shined.
"At the end of the day, it's just a performance. But she got the heart of Stage GR," says Morgan. "Which is about the whole person, it's about the process. It's about making everyone feel loved and valued. And she knew that and she did that. She was a friend to everyone."
Forest Hills Public Schools released this statement about Stanley on Tuesday:
As a united Forest Hills Public Schools community, we continue to share in the grief of the passing of Forest Hills Eastern High School senior Tessa Stanley.
Tessa was an exceptional student, a talented singer, and a gifted actress with a passion for theater and performing arts. She was a kind, caring individual and a shining light of hope and goodness. Through her grace and warmth, she touched the lives of many, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered.
We understand that Tessa's passing may raise many emotions, concerns, and questions, particularly among our students. Our district has a dedicated crisis intervention team, and our school counselors, social workers, and mental health liaisons will continue to support and assist any student who may need help coping with this loss. Let us surround the Stanley family with our love, prayers, and support in the coming days, weeks, and months. We need to lean on one another for strength and honor Tessa’s memory by supporting each other through these difficult times.
As for Morgan, she hopes Stanley knew the true impact she had on everyone she knew.
"She was enough," says Morgan. "She was enough just the way she was."
►Make it easy to keep up to date with more stories like this. Download the 13 ON YOUR SIDE app now.
Have a news tip? Email news@13onyourside.com, visit our Facebook page or Twitter. Subscribe to our YouTube channel.
Watch 13 ON YOUR SIDE for free on Roku, Amazon Fire TV Stick, and on your phone.