The community of Ebensburg, Pennsylvania, is mourning the loss of Peyton Olivia Gresh, a vibrant 17-year-old who passed away by suicide on September 1, 2025.
Peyton, known for her bright smile and kind nature, has left a deep sadness in the lives of her family, friends, and teammates.
As news of her passing spreads, many are remembering her joyful spirit and the struggles she faced in recent months.
Peyton was born on June 30, 2008, in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, as the eldest child of the late Brian Daniel Gresh and Brandi Gresh.
Raised alongside her siblings, Marah, Gabriel, and Giana, Peyton shared a close bond with her family.
She treasured time with her mother and enjoyed creating memories with her brothers and sisters.
From a young age, Peyton entered the world with bright eyes and a readiness to embrace life’s adventures.
Her Family Described her as Someone who Brought Light and Energy Wherever she went
Throughout her life, Peyton pursued her passions with enthusiasm, attending Central Cambria High School, where she balanced academics with her love for cheerleading.
As a member of Venom Athletics, Peyton shone on the Queen Cobras team. She was also part of the Sassy Strikers, a group that achieved four national championships.
Her dedication to the sport earned her respect from coaches and peers alike.
Beyond cheerleading, Peyton remained committed to her fitness routine and enjoyed being active. She often drove her car around town, enjoying the simple freedom it brought.
Peyton had a creative side, too. She was an avid TikToker who delighted in making videos that showcased her personality.
Cooking and baking were among her favorite hobbies, and she often shared these moments with friends.
Her vibrant energy grew in her social circle, where she was known as a loyal and supportive friend.
The past year had been especially tough for Peyton and her family.
On April 17, 2025, her father, Brian Gresh, passed away, with whom Peyton shared a special bond, and his loss hit her hard.
In the months that followed, she went through grief while trying to hold onto the things she loved.
Just before her passing, Peyton posted an old video of her and her father on tiktok.
The caption, “A month to remember the lives lost to suicide.” This message highlighted her awareness of mental health struggles.
One commenter, Isabelle, shared a heartfelt note:
” I wish we went through with us hanging out and getting to know each other more. I’m sorry baby. I’m glad you felt comfortable enough to call me the nights you did. Rest easy baby, you are loved forever.”
Via Tiktok
Venom Athletics, where Peyton had been a beloved member, announced her passing with deep sorrow. In a statement, they wrote:
The organization remembered her as a light to her teammates, known for her dedication, positivity, and ability to bring laughter and encouragement to practices and competitions.
Many People who knew Peyton have expressed their Heartfelt Tributes.
Her stepmother, Sarah Rose, expressed her heartbreak:
” I love you Brian and Pey. Not even 5 months apart, I lost both of you. I know you two had a bond like no other and he is going to come running when he sees you.”
Via Facebook
Former teammate Kayla Ken shared:
“Peyton had such a kind and sweet soul. We cheered together on Lady Venom. It shatters my heart to hear of her passing. My heart is with her sister Marah and family. Whether we are/have been friends, met once, or are total strangers… I am here for anyone that needs an ear to listen, a shoulder to cry on, or just a hug. YOU are IMPORTANT, BEAUTIFUL and WORTHY of another day. A better day is just around the corner, I promise. Just as quickly as things change for the worse, they can change for the better. Hold on longer than you think you can.”
Via Facebook
Another former teammate, Chelsea Smith, added:
“I am devastated to hear this. I cheered with this girl for one season but she was such a sweetheart. Never had a bad thing to say about anyone. Truly saddened by this news and I am thinking about her family and loved ones during this time.”
VIa Facebook
Friend Beka Seese wrote a touching message:
A TikTok user paid tribute:
“Oh Peyton, you were so loved by many. My little baby, I’m so sorry you were struggling the way you were. I wish I could’ve taken your pain away. Please, anyone, if you’re struggling just know you are loved and will get thru everything. Brian, please watch over our little girl. Forever screaming Peyton. LLP.🤍”
Via TIktok
Peyton will be remembered for her joyful spirit, kindness, and the importance of mental health awareness she inspired in others.
She is survived by her loving mother, Brandi Gresh; her stepfather, Ryan Huber; her stepmother, Sarah Rose; her siblings, Marah, Gabriel, and Giana; and her grandparents and other loved ones.
Her father, Brian Gresh, and great-grandparents preceded her death.
Friends and family will gather to honor Peyton’s life. Visitation is scheduled for Thursday, September 4, 2025, from 2–4 p.m. and 6–8 p.m. at Askew-Houser Funeral Homes, Inc., in Ebensburg.
At Peyton’s request, attendees are asked to wear yellow.
A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, September 5, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Family Roman Catholic Church in Colver, with Fr. Christopher Lemme, T.O.R., as celebrant.
Interment will follow at Holy Family Cemetery. In place of flowers, donations in Peyton’s memory may be made to the Central Cambria Class of 2026.
As her community grieves, they hold onto the light she shared, ensuring her memory lives on.
Rest in peace, Peyton Olivia Gresh. You are loved forever.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Her favourite color was yellow, her favourite animals were dogs, and her favorite singer was Billie Eilish.
