NICHOLASVILLE, Ky. (WKYT) - A Jessamine County man is dead and his wife is fighting for her life after a weekend car crash.

The crash happened around 2:00 a.m. Sunday at the intersection of Union Mill Road and Orchard Drive in Nicholasville.

Police say Joseph Gayheart lost control of his car and hit a tree. He died at the scene. Whitney Gayheart was rushed to UK hospital, where she's in serious condition.

Whitney owns a salon called Whitz Endz on Main Street in Nicholasville. She also worked out at Jazzercise next door.

Friends describe Whitney as having a larger than life personality and being among the most positive people around.

Friends and clients say they're hoping Whitney can recover.

"She was the most loving person," says Sharon Mitchell. "She had a heart that no matter what, she would lift you up."

Friends say the Gayhearts have been married about five years and were very much in love.

Joseph Gayheart's mother, Janet, tought high school math in Jessamine County for nearly thirty years. Lou Young, the Jessamine County Schools Superintendent, describes Janet as among the most dedicated teachers she's seen.

Young also says Janet Gayheart's crowning achievement was her children.

"Joe and Kimberly were the light of her life," Young said. "It's shocking, heartbreaking."

Young says Joseph's sister, Kimberly, is a teacher at Nicholasville Elementary School.

Police are still investigating the crash.