By. Ziere Banner
On behalf of the Adams State Family, we mourn for the death of Milanyela “Milly” Meza, a student athlete here at Adams State University. She touched many hearts with her kindness and willingness to make everyone happy at all times. She had friends all over campus and throughout the Adams State’s sports teams, particularly the women’s lacrosse team. Wherever you might have seen Milly, whether it be on campus, in the SUB or in class, or on the playing field, she kept a smile on her face that enlightened so many of her peers.
On Sunday, February 3, 2019, at approximately 11:27am while driving back to Alamosa after a weekend visit to her hometown in Westminster, Colorado, Milly lost control of her 2009 white Pontiac G6 Sedan, eastbound on Highway 160 near milepost 277.4, according to the Alamosa News.
The Pontiac lost control and swerved into the oncoming traffic westbound lane where she collided with a 2011 freightliner truck-tractor on the right side. The Pontiac came to rest on the westbound shoulder.
Our Milly Meza, 20, was pronounced deceased on the scene when first responders got there.
The truck driver sustained no injuries, however is under investigation still for excessive speed conditions, according to the Alamosa News.
“Milly had a positive impact on the field. She came in as a new player with only one goal in mind: progression. She was the kind of player who would ask questions during practice, show up early, and stay after just to improve. Everything she did, she worked hard at and finished with a smile,” said one of Milly’s lacrosse teammates, senior Cynthia Perez. Milly’s drive and efforts were not only noticed on the field, but also off the field.
“On campus, Milly was radiant. No matter who you were, she’d always flash a smile your way. You’d see her across the street and she’d welcome you with a happy smile, a huge wave, and her typical, ‘Hello?!’” said Cynthia Perez.
This has been tough times for everyone. Losing someone, especially someone with a good soul like Milly is ultimately tough for everyone.
Alexis Wellong, a junior here at Adams State and also Milly’s teammate, said, “She was the kindest, most loving person someone could ever encounter. Milly always had a smile on her face and was willing to help you with anything you needed. When times got rough in both of our lives I knew she would have my back and I would have hers. Lacrosse wasn’t her only passion. She loved art and she was good at it! She took mine and my boyfriend’s Christmas pictures and they were stunning. She always wanted to do a mural on a wall in the lacrosse locker room, and that is what we are going to do as a team to honor her. She was a truly wonderful person on and off the field.”
As we mourn her beautiful soul, there are counseling services open for anyone struggling with her death. These services take place in the Hall of Fame room located at the front of Plachy Hall from 1-2pm on Monday and Tuesday.
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