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Funeral announced for Franklin native killed in hit-and-run near Florida State University

Funeral announced for Franklin native killed in hit-and-run near FSU
Ellie Sims memorial
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NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Funeral arrangements have been announced for a Franklin native who was killed in a hit-and-run in Florida.

Ellie Sims' funeral will happen May 25, at Holy Family Catholic Church in Brentwood at 10 a.m. More details are to come.

A memorial sits by the crosswalk where Sims — a Florida State University student — was struck and killed by a hit-and-run driver in Tallahassee. Police later arrested an 18-year-old.

Thousands of people have signed a petition calling for improved safety measures where Ellie died.

Ellie grew up in Franklin. Katie Hill, the principal of Page High School issued a statement:

“The Page High family is deeply saddened to hear of Ellie’s passing, and we extend our deepest sympathy to her family," said Katie Hill, principal of Page High School. "Ellie will be greatly missed by her teachers, coaches, teammates, peers and all who knew and loved her, and we will remember her for her sweet smile, her kind spirit and her compassion for all.”

Her sorority posted about a scholarship fund to honor her memory:

To help her family during this time, there's a GoFundMe page.

Nashville music school offering lessons for just 50 cents for families with limited income

Music lessons for just 50 cents! A Nashville music school has been providing that to area students for over 40 years including for the city's current mayor. As a child, I always wanted to take piano lessons. I was able to for about 6 months but had to stop due to family finances. I would have loved to have had access to a program like this at the W. O. Smith Music School.

- Lelan Statom