Elise Cole Obituary: Millard West High School Mourns the Loss of Sophomore Killed in Omaha Crash Near 176th and Q Streets
A bright light has gone out far too soon in the community of Omaha, Nebraska, as family, friends, and classmates mourn the tragic loss of Elise “Ellie” Cole, a beloved sophomore at Millard West High School. Ellie passed away following a devastating car crash near 176th and Q streets, and her passing has sent ripples of grief through all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Ellie was only 15, but in those few years, she managed to touch more hearts than many do in a lifetime. She was the kind of person who radiated joy — someone whose presence made the world feel lighter, warmer, and more welcoming. Those who knew her describe her as kind, compassionate, and fiercely empathetic — a young woman whose smile was as contagious as her spirit was uplifting.
Millard West Principal Dr. Greg Tiemann shared a tribute that perfectly encapsulated Ellie’s impact:
“Ellie was a kind, joyful person who gave so much of herself to others. As a member of the Principal’s Council and Show Choir, she was always eager to share her voice and make a difference. Ellie greeted everyone with a smile and had a special way of making people feel seen—whether it was saying hello in the hallway or helping new students feel at home at Millard West.”
A dedicated student and an enthusiastic member of the school community, Ellie was known for her leadership, her musical talents, and above all, her heart. Her involvement in the Principal’s Council was driven by a genuine desire to improve the lives of her peers and foster a sense of inclusion and belonging at her school. In Show Choir, Ellie’s voice wasn’t just heard — it was felt. She sang not for the spotlight, but for the shared joy of creating something beautiful with others.
She had a natural way of connecting with people — of making them feel important and valued, no matter their background or story. Her friends recall how she would always be the first to notice when someone was having a bad day, the first to offer a word of encouragement, a handwritten note, or simply a warm hug.
At home, Ellie was a cherished daughter, sister, and granddaughter. Her family remembers her as a vibrant, loving soul who filled their home with music, laughter, and endless affection. She loved animals, dancing in the kitchen, late-night talks, and volunteering whenever she had the chance. Her empathy wasn’t limited to those she knew personally — she had a genuine desire to help anyone in need, from a classmate to a complete stranger.
Her loss is immeasurable — not just for her family, but for the Millard West community and the many lives she touched along the way. The outpouring of love and remembrance since the accident has been profound: classmates writing messages of love on sticky notes throughout the school halls, candles lit in her honor, and songs sung not with voices alone, but with hearts full of grief and gratitude for having known her.
In the face of this tragedy, the Millard West High School community has come together to honor Ellie’s life with the same kindness and compassion she so freely gave. Grief counselors have been made available to support students and staff, and a memorial event is being planned to celebrate Ellie’s life and legacy.
Though she is no longer here, Ellie’s impact remains. It’s in every act of kindness inspired by her memory, in every note sung with joy and vulnerability, and in every student who now dares to be a little kinder, a little more present, because of her example.
Elise “Ellie” Cole’s life was a gift. And while her time here was tragically brief, the love she gave, the joy she sparked, and the change she inspired will live on — in hallways, in hearts, and in voices that continue to sing her song.
Rest in peace, Ellie. You were deeply loved. You are profoundly missed. And you will never, ever be forgotten.
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