Lima Central Catholic HS Student-Athlete Ava Armstead, 15, Passes Away, Leaving Her Parents, Shaun & Kelly In Grief
May she rest in peace!
May 28, 2026
This article was last updated by Rovik Parajuli on May 28, 2026
The Lima, Ohio, community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Ava Armstead, a vibrant 15-year-old student and athlete at Lima Central Catholic High School, who tragically passed away this week.
Loved by classmates, teachers, teammates, and family alike, Ava’s sudden passing has left a deep void in the hearts of those who knew her.
Ava Armstead’s Father Made The Heartbreaking Announcement
Ava’s father, Shaun Armstead, shared the devastating news on social media, asking for privacy during this incredibly difficult time.
He wrote,
“Our baby, Ava Armstead, passed away yesterday. Please respect our privacy at this time. There will be more details to come regarding funeral arrangements. She was 15 years old and the light of our lives. We are coming together as a family to support one another.”
Shaun has been married to Ava’s stepmother, Ashley Armstead, since April 23, 2017.
The couple, based in Lima, Ohio, has spent the last eight years building a strong family foundation centered around love and support for Ava and her siblings.
She Shared A Close Bond With Her Birth Mother
Ava Armstead shared a deep bond with her birth mother, Kelly Thirkill, a Clinical Manager at Heritage Healthcare and a graduate of Ohio University’s nursing program.
Kelly, now married to Jamie Thirkill since 2018, remained a constant and loving presence in Ava’s life.
The blended families, Armstead, Carpenter, and Thirkill, are now leaning on each other as they try to navigate this unimaginable loss.
School And Sports Community Are Mourning The Beloved Soul & Helping Through GoFundMe
Lima Central Catholic High School’s volleyball program, where Ava played as a defensive specialist wearing jersey number 34 on the JV team, shared a heartfelt tribute to their beloved player.
“It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of one of our own. Ava Armstead was one of a kind. She was an amazing and brilliant girl who always seemed to have a smile on her face. She will be missed dearly by many.
Please keep her family in your prayers during this difficult time. TbirdStrong 🩵🏐❤️”
In addition to volleyball, Ava also wore jersey #21 for varsity softball, showing her athletic talent and determination across multiple sports.
Described by friends and classmates as someone who “lit up every room,” Ava left a lasting impression far beyond the court.
Her kindness, leadership, and joyful spirit made her a role model to many, as younger students looked up to her and teammates depended on her for positivity and quiet strength.
Teachers and coaches admired her academic dedication, discipline, and unshakable character.
To support Ava’s family during this tragic time, a GoFundMe campaign has been launched.
The fundraiser seeks to cover funeral expenses and provide emotional and financial support to the Armstead, Carpenter, and Thirkill families.
“Ava was more than just a student or athlete. She was the heartbeat of every room she entered—known for her infectious smile, kind spirit, and the quiet strength she carried with her on and off the volleyball court…
This fundraiser has been created to help the family with funeral expenses and any other financial burdens they may face during this heartbreaking time.”
Those who wish to contribute or offer support are encouraged to donate, share the campaign, or send prayers and condolences to the grieving families.
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