Illini DC Aaron Henry addresses unexpected death of sister

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND) - Homecoming week is usually one that is filled with celebration.

But for Illini defensive coordinator Aaron Henry, it was a difficult one.

Henry's sister, Ashley Lee, unexpectedly died during the middle of last week.

She was 39 and had four children.

Henry thanked head coach Bret Bielema for giving him time and space to grieve.

"It was obviously a very hard week," Henry said. "I really feel bad for my nieces and nephews. Anytime you've got some young babies who have to go through something like that, to lose their mother, is obviously very, very, very challenging. Obviously, I've got a great support system here."