Unexpected Tragedy Strikes Mt. Pleasant: Teen Cross Country Runner Passes Away, Leaving Her Parents Jennifer And Jonathan Utterly Broken
A Tragic loss for the Hageman family!
December 9, 2026
This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on December 9, 2026
Mt. Pleasant, Texas — The community is rallying around the family of Ava Claire Hageman, a 7th-grade National Junior Honor Society member at Mt. Pleasant Junior High and a Cross County runner, after her untimely passing.
Ava Claire was remembered not only as a bright and compassionate student but also as someone whose presence left a lasting impression on classmates, neighbors, and friends.
Funeral services will be held at First Baptist Church in Mt. Pleasant on Thursday, December 11, at 2 p.m.
The Hageman family has established a GiveButter memorial fund aimed at renewing Dellwood Park, building a community pool, and creating a place “where joy and community can flourish.”
in her memory. Supporters can head to to find the donation page.
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Ava Claire was inducted into the National Junior Honor Society and participated in school events held in the junior high gym, a space where she enjoyed gathering with peers.
Her mother, Jennifer McCauley Hageman, confirmed she was in seventh grade, a detail the family emphasizes to honor her academic achievements and age, and was a grade senior to her sibling, Holland, who is also studying at CHJH.
The outpouring of love online underscores how many lives she touched. Friends and community members shared heartfelt messages, expressing their grief and support.
“Oh Jennifer McCauley Hageman, my son came home and told me! I am so so sorry! Sending tons of prayers for you and all those who loved Ava Claire,” wrote JanetandKevin Davis, capturing the shock and sadness felt across the neighborhood.
LeeAnn Sears added, “Crissy!! Love you all so much. MUCH love and so many prayers, Jennifer, Becca, Sandy, you are LOVED!”
Others offered spiritual comfort and reflections on Ava Claire’s impact. Jeff L Clark shared a passage of scripture, noting, “Much love and prayers during this incredibly difficult time. ‘Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ… who comforts us in all our affliction…’”
Beverley Young-Nelson expressed the deep personal loss, writing, “My heart is broken from the news about our precious girl… Keeping you all in my prayers and sending love to your family.”
Messages poured in from all corners, with friends and relatives offering prayers, hugs, and words of encouragement. “Prayers to the family and friends,” wrote Wynndy Skeins. Mindy Brown Barrow added, “Prayers for your family. I’m so sorry ❤️🙏🏼,”
While Lauren Gentry noted, “Jennifer, you and your family have been heavy on my heart! I know there are no appropriate words, but just know I love you and will be praying for peace and comfort for you and your family!”
Keli Roberts added, “My heart breaks for this beautiful Child’s family and friends. Sending prayers to them.”
The family released a statement thanking the community: “Thank you all for all of the prayers and love to our family. They are sincerely felt and appreciated. We are going to miss our Clairee so much.”
The memorial fund in Ava Claire’s name aims to provide a lasting place for families in Mt. Pleasant to gather, play, and create joyful memories.
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Anish Koirala has loved sports since he was a kid. He grew up playing basketball and soccer, and that passion stayed with him over the years. Today, Anish works as a writer and editor, sharing his knowledge and love for the game through articles and stories. He uses his playing experience to make his writing clear, thoughtful, and fun to read.
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