The Louisiana Public Broadcasting (LPB) community is mourning the sudden passing of Dorothea Wilson, co-anchor and reporter for Louisiana: The State We’re In (SWI), who died unexpectedly on Tuesday, August 26.

Wilson, a beloved member of the LPB family, is being remembered not only for her professional achievements but also for her warmth, kindness, and ability to connect deeply with those around her.

In a heartfelt statement, LPB President and CEO Clarence “C.C.” Copeland shared the gravity of the loss:

“It is with profound sadness that I share the news of the passing of our dear colleague Dorothea Wilson. LPB has lost not only a valued staff member but also a remarkable individual whose dedication and kindness touched everyone with whom she worked.”

Wilson was well-known to viewers across Louisiana for her work on Louisiana: The State We’re In, a program dedicated to bringing in-depth reporting and thoughtful analysis of the state’s most pressing issues.

As both a co-anchor and reporter, she covered stories with empathy and integrity, ensuring that the voices of everyday Louisianans were heard alongside those of policymakers and leaders.

LPB Executive Producer Linda Midgett reflected on Wilson’s legacy within the newsroom:

“Dorothea was truly a light in this world. She had a wonderful sense of humor and was a delight to work with in every way. On behalf of the entire SWI team, we are so saddened by this loss. We are grateful for the time we had with her and already miss her kind, wonderful presence.”

Colleagues describe Wilson as a professional who approached her work with diligence, passion, and heart. Beyond her journalism, she was admired for her ability to uplift others, often infusing the newsroom with positivity and encouragement.

Her natural curiosity, combined with her approachable demeanor, allowed her to form meaningful connections with the people whose stories she told. Viewers across the state also felt a personal connection to Wilson.

Through her reporting and on-air presence, she became a trusted source of information, someone who could explain complex issues with clarity while maintaining compassion for the communities impacted.

Many who followed her work have taken to social media to express their grief and gratitude, noting how her voice and perspective enriched Louisiana’s public broadcasting.

LPB has announced that Wilson’s life and legacy will be honored during the Friday, September 5 broadcast of Louisiana: The State We’re In, airing at 7 p.m. The tribute will feature highlights of her reporting, interviews with colleagues, and reflections on the impact she made throughout her career.

The segment will also serve as a way for viewers to join the LPB family in remembering a woman who left an indelible mark on both journalism and community life.

In extending its condolences, LPB emphasized the profound sense of loss shared by all who knew Wilson. She is survived by family and friends who, like her colleagues, remember her as a generous spirit, a dedicated professional, and a bright presence whose absence will be deeply felt.

For now, the LPB community continues to grieve while holding on to the legacy of a journalist whose work, kindness, and laughter will not be forgotten.