ASHLAND — Amelia “Millie” Meyer had a way of making people feel loved.
A candlelight vigil brought together community members whose lives were touched by the Ashland High School student. Meyer was killed on Oct. 31 in a multi-vehicle crash on U.S. 30 that also injured three others.
Family and friends shared memories of her kindness, her sense of humor and her determination on the soccer field.
“She would dance like nobody was there and sing everything at the top of her lungs,” said Owen Murphy, a friend of Millie’s.
With each person who stood to speak about Millie, everyone seemed to recall her way of making people feel loved and seen.
“She would want to be remembered as somebody who was loving, somebody who was caring, somebody who saw all sides and somebody no matter what the circumstances were, would go out of their way to show compassion,” Murphy said.
Friends of Millie organized the candlelight vigil Wednesday night at Ashland Christian Church. Guests could write their favorite memories of Millie in a book at the front for her family. Megan Auer donated refreshments for the evening.
Attendees joined in songs, prayer and a moment of silence. Candles were passed around and lit at the end of the vigil for those present to reflect on the ways Millie touched their lives.
During the vigil, one of Sully Stapleton’s friends shared an update on his recovery. Stapleton was in the car during the crash but has made it through most of the surgeries and is conscious.
Ways to contribute
People in the Ashland community have begun organizing ways to support the families affected by the crash and carry Millie’s memory forward.
Ohio Strikers United Soccer Club is establishing the Millie Meyer Memorial Scholarship in her honor. The scholarship recognizes a goalkeeper who carries on Millie’s spirit through hard work, competitiveness, confidence, fearlessness and commitment.
Millie was a member of the Strikers club team and was a goalkeeper for Ashland High School. The organization wants the scholarship to inspire future generations of players.
Heartland Technical Education Center is also accepting cards for Sully Stapleton and Max Davis as they recover. Community members can mail cards to 1783 OH-60 Ashland, OH.
Owen Murphy’s mom, Andrea Murphy, said GoFundMe donations are available for all three families affected by the crash. Murphy said the Meyer family would also appreciate donations to mental health agencies because of Millie’s advocacy for mental health.
“If you see somebody in the hallway or pass them on the street, smile, say hello, ask them how their day is, because that could change everything for somebody,” Millie’s mother, Megan Painter said.
