The small, tight-knit community of Hodgenville, Kentucky, is grieving the sudden and devastating loss of 9-year-old Charlene Preslee-Kay Sipes, affectionately known as “Charlie.” Her tragic death, which occurred on her birthday, has left an indelible mark on her family, friends, and the entire town. On May 6, 2025, Charlene’s life was cut short in a heartbreaking accident, and her passing has shocked the community, leaving everyone searching for answers and struggling to cope with the loss of such a vibrant and joyful young girl.
Charlene was a young girl with a big heart and a bright future ahead of her. She had a love for life that was contagious, and her bright eyes, warm smile, and infectious laughter lit up every room she entered. She was full of dreams, and on the day of her tragic accident, Charlene had just celebrated her 9th birthday, a milestone that should have been filled with happiness and celebration. But instead, her birthday turned into an unimaginable day of sorrow, as a freak accident ended her young life in an instant.
The incident occurred on the afternoon of May 6, 2025, when Charlene was riding her bicycle near her family’s home in Hodgenville. According to LaRue County Sheriff Russell McCoy, the young girl struck a curb while riding, which caused her to lose control of her bike. As she fell, a metal brake lever from the handlebars pierced her neck, severing a major artery. Despite the swift response from emergency services and their efforts to save her, Charlene’s injuries were too severe. She was pronounced dead at the scene. The sheriff described the incident as a “freak and unforeseeable accident” and expressed his condolences to Charlene’s family, noting the heartbreaking nature of such an event.
The shock and disbelief surrounding Charlene’s sudden death have left the community of Hodgenville reeling. A small, close-knit town, Hodgenville is now faced with the unthinkable loss of one of its youngest and most beloved residents. Charlene’s family and friends are left to cope with the pain of her untimely passing, and the town is grappling with the heartache of losing a young life that had so much promise.
Charlene was a third-grade student at Abraham Lincoln Elementary School in Hodgenville, where she was adored by her teachers and classmates alike. Known for her curiosity, her big smile, and her eagerness to learn, she was a bright presence in the classroom. Her teacher, Mrs. Amanda Harp, shared her memories of Charlene, calling her a “spark” in the classroom who always asked thoughtful questions and never hesitated to lend a helping hand. “Charlie was one of those kids who made teaching feel like the best job in the world,” Mrs. Harp said. “She was curious, compassionate, and eager to learn. She had a spark in her that made her unforgettable.”
Beyond her love of learning, Charlene had many other interests and passions. She was an avid reader and loved to spend time exploring nature, especially her fascination with butterflies and the moon. Charlene dreamed of one day becoming a scientist who could “save the Earth,” a testament to her inquisitive nature and her desire to make a difference in the world. She also loved to draw and write stories, often letting her imagination take her to fantastical places where anything was possible. But above all, Charlene was known for her kindness. She had a generous heart and a deep love for her family and friends. She was the kind of child who would give hugs “just because,” always making others feel valued and loved.
Charlene’s mother, Tiffany Fischer, has been vocal in sharing her grief, posting an emotional tribute to her daughter on social media. In her heartfelt message, Tiffany expressed the pain of losing her beloved daughter, writing, “This isn’t supposed to be real. It’s supposed to be a dream. I’m going to wake up and it’s all a nightmare… I don’t want to do this without you, baby. I don’t know how to do this without you. You were the sun. You were my stars. My everything. I love you more, baby.” These words have resonated deeply with others, many of whom have expressed their sympathy and support for Tiffany and her family during this incomprehensible time.
Charlene’s siblings, four brothers and sisters, are also coping with the overwhelming loss of their sister. The grief of losing a sibling, especially one so young, has left them devastated. As a family, they are leaning on each other for support, but the pain is immense, and the absence of Charlene is felt deeply in their lives. While the family has requested privacy during this difficult time, they have expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of love and support from the community.
In the wake of Charlene’s death, the community has come together to honor her memory. Vigils and memorials have been held in her honor, with friends, family, and classmates gathering to share their stories, offer their condolences, and remember the young girl who brought so much joy into their lives. A small memorial near the site of the accident has been created, adorned with flowers, drawings, balloons, and handwritten notes from friends and loved ones. One such note reads, “Charlie, I will miss playing with you at recess. You always made me smile.”
A GoFundMe campaign has also been started to help cover the funeral expenses and to provide support to Charlene’s family during this challenging time. The campaign, titled “In Memory of Charlie,” has already raised thousands of dollars from generous donors, more than tripling its initial goal. The support from the community has been overwhelming, with many people expressing their desire to help the family in any way they can. Lisa Deweese, a family friend, expressed her gratitude for the outpouring of support, saying, “It’s amazing how many people who didn’t even know Charlene have stepped up. It shows the power of community and love. She touched more lives than she ever knew.”
Charlene’s family has also decided to establish a memorial scholarship in her name, which will be used to support students pursuing a career in science, a cause that was important to Charlene. The scholarship will serve as a lasting tribute to her curiosity, her passion for learning, and her desire to help others.
A visitation service for Charlene will be held on Friday, May 9, 2025, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Bennett-Bertram Funeral Home in Hodgenville. The family has chosen cremation, in accordance with their wishes. The visitation will be an opportunity for friends, family, and the community to come together to remember Charlene, share stories, and offer support to one another.
Charlene’s untimely death has left an irreplaceable void in the lives of those who knew her. Her vibrant spirit, her kindness, and her infectious laughter will be missed by all who were fortunate enough to have crossed her path. But her memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved her, and the lessons she taught about love, compassion, and joy will continue to inspire those who carry her memory forward.
As the community of Hodgenville continues to grieve the loss of Charlene, they are reminded of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing each moment with our loved ones. The impact of Charlene’s life will be felt long after her passing, and her memory will continue to inspire those who were touched by her in ways words cannot fully express. Rest in peace, Charlie—you will never be forgotten.
