Laurier mourns the death of student Jessica Wyles

March 23, 2023

Wilfrid Laurier University is profoundly saddened by the death of Jessica Wyles, a student in the Faculty of Arts. Jessica passed away suddenly, as the result of a car accident, on March 11, 2023 at the age of 22. 

The Dean of Students has been in touch with the Wyles family to offer the Laurier community’s deepest sympathies and support. Flags will be lowered to half-mast at Laurier’s campuses in Jessica’s honour.  

“Many students have visited our office to share their love for Jessica and sadness since her passing,” said Dean of Students Adam Lawrence. “The tremendous impact Jessica had on the lives of so many Laurier students is evident and will not be forgotten.” 

A cherished friend to all who knew her, Jessica possessed a wit and self-confidence beyond her years. In her final year at Laurier, she dedicated her studies to journalism and proved herself a talented writer. Jessica had recently been published for a third time, sharing her insights in a piece titled “The evolution of poetry and Instagram.” 

An avid animal lover, especially horses, Jessica also possessed an intense passion for the environment. She is remembered by friends and colleagues as a fun-loving individual with an unrivalled will and fierce determination.  

A high-achieving student, Jessica will be awarded a posthumous Bachelor of Arts degree at a future Laurier convocation ceremony.    

Memorial visitations for Jessica will take place at Glen Oak Funeral Home, 3164 Ninth Line, Oakville on March 26 from 6 to 8 p.m. and March 27 from noon to 1 p.m. A memorial service will take place at Glen Oak Funeral Home on March 27 from 1 to 2 p.m., followed by a reception from 2 to 4 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the Wyles family asks that donations be made to Trillium Gift of Life Network in support of the gift of organ and tissue donation made by Jessica.  

• Jessica Wyles memorial notice published by Arbor Memorial.  

Losing a student has a significant impact on the entire Laurier community. The university is focused on offering support and ensuring the well-being of students, faculty and staff. As we mourn Jessica, Laurier reminds students, staff and faculty of the support services available at the university:  

• Student Wellness Centres: 519.884.0710 x3146 or wellness@wlu.ca. 
• Here 24/7: 1.844.437.3247. 
• Delton Glebe Counselling Centre: 519.884.3305 or glebecentre@wlu.ca. 
• Dean of Students’ Office: 519.884.0710 x3533 or deanofstudentswl@wlu.ca (Waterloo) or 519.756.8228 x5716 or deanofstudentsbr@wlu.ca (Brantford). 
• Laurier Human Resources employee and family assistance program: 519.884.0710 x2007 or hr@wlu.ca.  
• Laurier's Special Constable Service: 519.885.3333 (Waterloo) or 519.770.3778 (Brantford).