VICKSBURG, MS – The city of Vicksburg is in mourning after the devastating loss of one of its own. Elizabeth Blair Hearn, a 21-year-old Vicksburg native, tragically passed away on Saturday, April 13, 2025, from injuries she sustained in a recent car crash on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Her untimely death has sent shockwaves through her hometown, where she was known for her bright spirit, loving personality, and zest for life.
A Bright Light Lost Too Soon
Born on January 7, 2004, Blair Hearn was a beacon of light to all who knew her. Raised in Vicksburg, she attended Clinton Public Schools from the first through twelfth grade. Throughout her life, Blair left a lasting impression with her infectious energy and a heart full of kindness. Friends and family fondly recall how she never met a stranger — always quick with a compliment and generous with her time and affection.
Her loved ones describe her as “a special gift from God,” someone whose presence made the world a better place. Blair had an uncanny ability to lift spirits and connect with others, making her passing all the more heartbreaking for the many people she touched in her short life.
A Passionate Soul with Diverse Interests
Blair’s interests and passions were as vibrant as her personality. During her high school years, she was an active member of the Clinton Arrow Band, where she played the trumpet with pride. Music was just one of her many creative outlets. She also had a strong passion for the culinary arts, often expressing herself through food and dreaming of one day owning a business in the culinary field.
Another of Blair’s great loves was cars. She was especially proud of her Nissan 370Z, a sleek sports car with a loud exhaust that perfectly matched her bold spirit. She often attended Cars and Coffee events, where she formed close-knit friendships with fellow car enthusiasts and showcased her love for automotive culture.
Lover of the Outdoors and Coastal Escapes
Blair also had a deep appreciation for nature and the outdoors. She loved going on beach vacations, with St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands being one of her favorite destinations. The peace and beauty of the ocean called to her soul, and those who traveled with her to the beach say she was happiest with sand beneath her feet and salt in her hair.
Her adventurous nature extended to her relationship with her boyfriend, Wade “Max” Thornhill, with whom she shared countless memorable moments. The couple had been traveling together when the tragic accident occurred. Max is currently recovering from the same crash at the University of South Alabama in Mobile, Alabama, where he continues to receive treatment.
Family and Community Left Grieving
Blair’s tragic passing leaves a tremendous void in the hearts of her family and community. She is survived by her devoted parents, Becki and Chris Hearn; her loving sister, Lexi Hearn; her grandparents, Charlene Hearn, Pam Holman, and Preston Holman; as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and close friends.
She was preceded in death by her grandfather, Wayne O. Hearn; her great-grandmother, Shirley Lawrence; and her aunt, Diane Scallions — each of whom played important roles in her life and upbringing.
Honoring Blair Hearn’s Life
A visitation for Blair Hearn will be held on Saturday, April 19, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Glenwood Funeral Home in Vicksburg, MS, with funeral services to follow. The event is expected to be attended by a large number of community members, former classmates, friends, and family members — all gathering to pay tribute to a remarkable young woman whose life ended far too soon.
In honor of Blair, friends have shared personal stories and photographs online, celebrating the joy she brought into the lives of others. The Hearn family has expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support and prayers during this time of grief.
A Community United in Sorrow
As Vicksburg comes to terms with this heartbreaking loss, tributes continue to pour in on social media and local platforms. Blair Hearn’s memory lives on in the hearts of those who knew her — a vibrant young woman remembered for her kindness, strength, passion, and love for life.
The tragedy of her passing serves as a sobering reminder of the fragility of life, and her legacy will continue to inspire others to live with the same compassion and enthusiasm that she exemplified every day.
