In Loving Memory of Ashley Hagood, Bryant Ballew, and Bryleigh Pledger

In Loving Memory of Ashley Hagood, Bryant Ballew, and Bryleigh Pledger

With profound sorrow and heavy hearts, we remember the lives of 33-year-old Ashley Hagood, her beloved son Bryant Ballew, 13, and her precious daughter Bryleigh Pledger, 7—three beautiful souls taken far too soon in a devastating two-vehicle crash at the intersection of Alabama Highway 157 and Alabama Highway 24 in Lawrence County.

In a single, heartbreaking moment, a family’s world was forever changed. Ashley was traveling in a Chevy Suburban with her four children when their vehicle was struck by a Ford F-150. The impact was catastrophic, leaving a community in shock and a family shattered by unimaginable loss. Bryant and little Bryleigh were pronounced deceased at the scene, while Ashley was rushed to the hospital, where she tragically succumbed to her injuries shortly after.

Ashley Hagood will be remembered above all as a loving and devoted mother. Her children were her entire world—her purpose, her pride, and her greatest joy. She was the kind of person who carried light wherever she went, offering warmth, strength, and unwavering love to those around her. Her presence brought comfort, and her heart knew no limits when it came to caring for her family. The love she poured into her children will continue to live on, even in her absence.

Bryant Ballew, just 13 years old, had a future filled with promise and possibility. He was full of life, energy, and kindness—a young boy who left a lasting impression on everyone he met. His laughter, his spirit, and the joy he brought into the lives of his family and friends will never be forgotten. Bryant was deeply loved, and his absence leaves a void that words cannot begin to fill.

Sweet Bryleigh Pledger, only 7 years old, was a shining light of innocence and love. She had a gentle soul, a bright smile, and a heart full of kindness. She brought happiness wherever she went, leaving behind memories of laughter and warmth that will forever be cherished. Though her time here was brief, the love she gave and the joy she spread will endure in the hearts of those who knew her.

Amid this profound tragedy, there is also a story of survival and strength. Two other children in the vehicle, Bentley Pledger, 10, and Brynleigh Pledger, 7, survived the crash but sustained critical injuries. They were transported to Children’s of Birmingham, where they continue to fight and recover. Their courage in the face of such devastation stands as a powerful testament to resilience, and they remain surrounded by prayers, hope, and unwavering support.

In the wake of this heartbreaking loss, the community has come together in grief and solidarity. Tributes have poured in—honoring Ashley as an extraordinary mother and celebrating the beautiful lives of Bryant and Bryleigh. Their names, their stories, and their love will continue to be spoken, remembered, and carried forward by all who knew them.

There are no words that can truly ease the pain of losing a mother and her children in such a sudden and tragic way. The silence left behind is overwhelming, filled with the absence of laughter, love, and shared moments. Yet within that silence, there is also something enduring—memories that cannot be taken, love that cannot be broken, and a bond that will forever remain.

As the investigation continues and life slowly moves forward for those left behind, the grief remains deep and ever-present. But so does the love—stronger than loss, lasting beyond time.

May Ashley Hagood, Bryant Ballew, and Bryleigh Pledger rest in eternal peace. May their family find strength in one another, comfort in cherished memories, and healing in the love that surrounds them.

Forever loved. Forever remembered. Never forgotten.