Leanza Cornett, a former Miss America, passed away Wednesday from a brain injury, according to the Miss America Organization. She was 49.
Sharing the news of her death, the Miss America Organization said in a Facebook post, “Leanza had a bright and beautiful spirit and her laugh was infectious. We know she meant so much to so many.”
“We are devastated by this sudden loss in our Miss America family and we are deeply sorry for her family and close friends for their loss,” it added.
A spokesperson for the Miss America Organization told NBC News that Cornett died after suffering from complications related to a brain injury that she picked up during a “slip and fall at home.”
Cornett won Miss America in 1993. She advocated for AIDS awareness as her yearlong platform.
She even made a guest appearance in a few TV series, such as Saved by the Bell: New Class, CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, and Weeds.
Mark Steines, Cornett’s ex-husband, expressed sadness over the loss.
He wrote on Instagram, “It is with a heavy heart that I share with you the passing of my ex-wife, Leanza the mother to our two extraordinary sons Kai and Avery.”
“We will always remember the wonderful times shared during her short time here on earth,” added Steines, who is a former Home and Family host. “I find comfort knowing Kai and Avery will forever have the best guardian angel watching over them as they navigate life’s path.”
