Cheslie Kryst’s Mother Breaks Silence Following Daughter’s Death
Cheslie Kryst’s mother is opening up in regards to losing her former Miss USA daughter, who passed away by what a chief medical examiner determined was suicide.
In a statement obtained by PEOPLE, April Simpkins says it’s the biggest tragedy she’s ever experienced.
"I have never known a pain as deep as this. I am forever changed. Today, what our family and friends privately knew was the cause of death of my sweet baby girl, Cheslie, was officially confirmed," Simpkins said in the statement. "While it may be hard to believe, it's true. Cheslie led both a public and a private life. In her private life, she was dealing with high-functioning depression which she hid from everyone — including me, her closest confidant — until very shortly before her death.”
Simpkins notes that while her daughter’s "life on this earth was short, it was filled with many beautiful memories.”
She added: "We miss her laugh, her words of wisdom, her sense of humor and mostly her hugs. We miss all of it — we miss all of her. She was a vital part of our family which makes this loss even more devastating. Cheslie — to the world, you were a ball of sunshine wrapped in smiles. We talked, FaceTimed or texted one another all day, every day. You were more than a daughter — you were my very best friend. Talking with you was one of the best parts of my day. Your smile and laugh were infectious. I love you baby girl with all my heart. I miss you desperately. I know one day we'll be together again. Until then, rest easy and in peace."
Additionally, Simpkins is asking that any donations made in honor of Kryst’s death be made to Dress for Success, "an organization that was dear" to her daughter's heart.
"If you or anyone else is struggling with thoughts of suicide, please contact the National Suicide Hotline at 800-273-8255," she added. "Thank you all for continuing to respect the privacy of our family while we grieve."
Simpkins herself has experience in the beauty pageants circuit as she was named Mrs. North Carolina in 2002, becoming only the second Black woman to hold the title, the Charlotte Observer reports.
Cheslie Kryst reportedly died on Sunday (January 30) after she jumped off a Manhattan high-rise building, according to the New York Post. The 30-year-old was found dead in the street in-front of the luxury building where she lived. On the day she passed, she posted the message on her Instagram page: “May this day bring you rest and peace.”
