THE reigning Miss Alabama for America was a “loving mother,” religious, “patriotic” and would still be alive “if she had a choice,” her family said.
Zoe Sozo Bethel, 27, died last Friday following an eight-day fight for her life in a hospital after police said she “fell out of a third-floor window” of her Miami condo on February 10.
She suffered severe damage to her brain/brainstem that left her in a coma for eight days.
“The initial police report is simply preliminary and is not conclusive, and is further absent specific facts from eyewitness testimony that would alter the ‘incident type,'” the family said in a statement.
Before her all-too-early passing, Bethel was more than a beauty queen.
She was a conservative commentator and worked in collaboration with groups like Project Veritas, Turning Point USA Students for Life of America and Liberty University’s Falkirk Center.
She was currently in Miami working as a model and spokeswoman.
“She was becoming more successful each year of her life, and she was only just beginning,” her family said.
“Even though she was glamorous in her modelling and as a pageant queen, she was not afraid to get her hands dirty for a good cause.”
Turning Point USA put together a 53-second memorial video for Bethel and said, “We are honored to have known Zoe Bethel.
“She has been a pillar in the Conservative movement, always moving with grace and wisdom. She has inspired many, and her legacy will continue to touch the hearts of people everywhere.
“You will not be forgotten, Zoe. May she Rest In Peace.”
Bethel’s family set up a fundraising page for Zoe’s medical bills and towards toward resources for her daughter.
“To those who have donated, the family is deeply appreciative. Thank you, her daughter is being set up for her future through your love and support,” Bethel’s family said in their statement.
Weeks before Bethel died, she shared messages of hope “living life to the fullest” on her Instagram.
She captioned one shot of herself wearing a red top with a quote she said was by Joan of Arc.
“One life is all we have and we live it as we believe in living it. But to sacrifice what you are and to live without belief, that is a fate more terrible than dying,” Zoe wrote on January 18.
Last December, the current Miss Alabama for America posted a message saying she was pondering on her life as the year came to a close.
“I was evaluating the earlier years of my life focusing on all the mistakes I’ve made, and the consequences of disobedience,” she wrote.
“I felt discouraged/ disappointed with all I haven’t achieved by my age. Feeling regretful.”
Zoe continued: “I am reminded to look at the bigger picture and admire all that God has done for me. Focusing on his promises and remaining steady in the faith to continue this journey of life guided by him.
“This year has passed like lightning. I am hopeful for what is to come, although I struggle with planning properly (free-spirited) I intend to tackle that flaw and get a better grip of 2022!”
Zoe finished her post with two quotes from the bible.
Last year, she also used her Instagram to honor her late mother: “In honor of my mother. #BreastCancerAwareness.”
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