Avery Michelle Whitfield (Courtesy)

Miss Avery Michelle Whitfield, age 19, of Elberton, ran into the arms of Jesus on Sunday, June 22, 2025, at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Arthur M. Blank Hospital.

Born in Athens on April 27, 2006, Avery was the daughter of Christopher Gary Whitfield and Laurie Michelle (Rowland) Whitfield. Along with her parents of Elberton, she is survived by her sister, MaKayla Whitfield Carey and her husband Brett of Hartwell; nephew, Whit Carey (Boogie to Aunt “Abey”); grandparents: Lynn Whitfield and the late Gary Whitfield of Homer and Leroy and Pam Rowland of Dewy Rose; great-grandmother, Irma Payne of Homer; aunts and uncles: Krystal and Blake Noggle, Lisa and Chris Moore, Tina and James Willis, and Barry Whitfield; cousins: Brice, Cadence, Millie, Jessica, Jennifer, Christopher, and Casey; and a host of other relatives and friends. Avery also loved “her” dog, Bindi Gray, who was the best therapy during some of the toughest days.

As an infant, Avery contracted a virus which ultimately resulted in liver failure. She received a liver transplant at just eight months old, her first miracle, and spent the rest of her 19 years courageously and bravely fighting. Even on her toughest days, Avery was more concerned for others than herself, never missing an opportunity to ask how your day was going or to make you feel appreciated for what you were doing for her care - especially her transplant team and nursing staff.

Her vivacious and feisty personality was sure to make you smile even on your worst days. Avery was a selfless individual who loved hard and was always doing for others she cared about even when she did not feel her best. Avery was a 2024 Honor Graduate from Elbert County High School. While at ECCHS, she enjoyed playing on the varsity golf team, cheering for varsity basketball, and twirling under the Granite Bowl Friday night lights as a majorette. Her sassy and witty personality will be forever remembered, and her beautiful smile and dimple will never be forgotten.

Avery will lie instate on Thursday, June 26, from 9:00a.m.-4:30p.m. at Berry Funeral Home for those wishing to pay their respects and sign the guestbook.

A Celebration of Avery’s life will be conducted on Friday, June 27, at 2:00p.m. at First Baptist Church of Elberton, where she attended Wee School as our Little A, with Pastor Tim Adams, Pastor Wesley Allen, and Pastor Kevin Vaughn officiating. To celebrate Avery’s love and life, we encourage everyone to wear pink.

A private family graveside service will follow at Forest Hills Memorial Park.

There will be no formal visitation at the funeral home; however, the family welcomes visitors at the home of Brett and MaKayla Carey, 266 Lecroy Lane, Hartwell.

Flowers are lovingly accepted. Avery was often comforted with a stuffed animal while in the hospital throughout her life. In lieu of birthday gifts, she would ask her friends to bring stuffed animals to donate to CHOA or Elbert Memorial Hospital. To continue Avery’s legacy of love, please donate new stuffed animals to your local hospital or donate to your local food bank. She never wanted anyone to be hungry, often packing extra food in her lunch to share or buying food to give to friends.

Those wishing may sign the online guestbook at berryfh.com.

Berry Funeral Home & Crematory of Elberton is respectfully in charge of arrangements for Miss Avery Michelle Whitfield.

Courtesy announcement by Whitfield Funeral Homes and Crematory