College Volleyball Star Aliyah Waldon Dies at 19 After Battling Aggressive Bone Cancer with 6-Inch Tumor; Mom Left ‘Shattered’

Mercer University is mourning the death of sophomore volleyball player Aliyah Waldon, 19, who passed away Sunday after a courageous fight with bone cancer. A standout athlete, she was diagnosed with osteosarcoma in 2024, forcing her to miss her sophomore season. Her team supported her throughout, and she is remembered for her infectious spirit.