Christa Prestridge, 20, was remembered by her family as a kind and caring young woman with a love for archaeology and an empathetic heart.
Her older sister, Elizabeth Prestridge, described Christa as “the kindest person that I knew, but disguised by sarcasm,” and said she enjoyed spending time with her 13-month-old niece, Aaryn.
Tragic Accident
Christa was struck and killed by a pickup truck on Monday night while walking in front of her childhood home on La. 42 near Rangeline Road in Livingston. She died at the scene, and authorities are still investigating the crash.
At the time, Christa was living with Elizabeth in Livingston Parish. Elizabeth said, “She was like my sidekick and built-in best friend.”
Family and Background
Christa grew up in Livingston Parish with her parents, Charmaine Watts and Tab Prestridge, and her sisters, Elizabeth and Breanna. Their father passed away when the sisters were young.
Christa was working toward her GED, with only one math test remaining. She dreamed of becoming a child protective services worker or helping in the foster care system. “She wanted to make a difference in her local community,” Elizabeth said.
Passion and Personality
Christa loved nature and had a compassionate soul, often stopping to help animals she saw on the road. She had recently been exploring faith and reading the Bible. Her sister admired her unique and empathetic personality.
Christa shared a close bond with her niece, Aaryn, who she often played with. “We called her ‘Auntie’ because Christa is a hard word to say. That baby brightened up her world and changed her life,” Elizabeth said.
She also loved small daily joys, including chicken ramen and Monster Energy drinks, especially the “paradise” flavor.
Remembering Christa
Elizabeth said she hopes people will remember her sister for her kind and loving nature, rather than the circumstances of her death. “I’m honored people will remember her as I did, instead of what happened to her,” she said.
