Tuscaloosa, Ala. – Former University of Alabama cheerleader Margaret “Meg” Ingram, 21, passed away Friday morning, February 1, at Huntsville Hospital after battling cancer.  Meg, a Tide cheerleader during the 2005-06 and 2006-07 school years, passed away with her parents by her side.

An excellent student who also was beloved for her talent, dedication and friendship, Meg most recently visited her cheerleading teammates in Tuscaloosa on January 14 when she and her family watched the Alabama cheerleaders perform their routine in a rehearsal for an upcoming national competition.

Diagnosed with a brain tumor in August of 2006, Meg successfully battled that illness via surgery and follow-up treatments.  Her resilience was evident when she returned from that malady to cheer at two football games during the 2006 season before returning to school in January of 2007.  She resumed her cheerleading and academic work that semester, working women’s basketball games and gymnastics competitions before another brain tumor was discovered during a check-up.

When it was discovered that the tumor was inoperable, Meg and her family maintained a positive attitude and continued to battle the disease that eventually took her life.  A positive, active and driven person, Meg continued her academic pursuits through the fall 2007 semester, taking two online courses during the term, and was making plans to return to campus and to her cheerleading activities before her passing.

Earlier this week, UA President Dr. Robert E. Witt bestowed an honorary degree of academic achievement on Meg for her excellent academic work.  She pursued studies in preparation for a career in nursing.

Visitation, memorial service and the funeral will be held at Cove United Methodist Church in Owens Cross Roads, Alabama (366 Old Highway 431 – www.covechurch.com).

Visitation will be held on Saturday, Feb. 2, from 4 to 6 p.m. with burial to take place Sunday, Feb. 3, at 2 p.m.  Those attending are asked to abide by Meg’s wishes and avoid wearing black clothing to her visitation and funeral.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in Meg’s name be sent to either the American Cancer Society or the Huntsville Botanical Gardens.

2005-06 Cheer Squad