The Eastern Mennonite University community was saddened to learn of the death of incoming student Kaitlin Aylor on Saturday, August 16, 2014. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends during this difficult time. Several cousins and a close friend are current or incoming students at EMU.
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Kaitlin Aylor, 18, of Madison, Virginia, died of brain trauma and internal injuries on Aug. 16, 2014, as a result of an accident where she was thrown from the four-wheeler in which she was riding.
A 2014 graduate of Madison (Va.) County High School, Kaitlin was within seven days of heading 47 miles west from her home in Madison, to enter EMU and to play collegiate softball under the guidance of coach J.D. McCurdy.
Kaitlin’s parents, Sue and Robert Aylor, have asked that contributions be given to the EMU women’s softball team in her honor, in recognition of Kaitlin’s excitement about playing softball at EMU.
A funeral service will take place on Tuesday, August 19, at 11 a.m., at Etlan United Methodist Church in Etlan, Virginia.
Checks may be made out to “EMU softball” and mailed to: 1200 Park Road, Harrisonburg, Virginia 22802. Please write “Kaitlin Aylor Memorial” in the memo line.
“Kaitlin was the example of the EMU student-athlete we want to recruit in our program. She was a kind and caring person with a big heart for the game and her teammates. In recruiting, Kaitlin was always respectful and never missed an opportunity to thank our coaches for coming to her games. She will never be forgotten and her spirit lives on.”
J.D. McCurdy, head coach, EMU softball
I had the pleasure of working with Kaitlin several times during softball camp. She was a delight to work with and was always willing to do whatever it took in hopes of improving her game. Although I did not know her well, I feel her presence will be missed greatly this year on the diamond. My thoughts and prayers will be with her friends and family.
My prayers and condolences are extended to Wanda Ayler Harris & the entire Ayler family.
May God our Father comfort and sustain each of you during this most difficult time.
We continue to pray your strength in The Lord.
Sylvonnia, Rodell, Ryan & Cody Dickens
I do not know Kaitlin, but as an EMU freshmen this year I can only imagine the excitement she had for starting college and another softball season. My prayers go with you, Ayler family and friends of Kaitlin, and I ask that God be gracious to you in your mourning.