Actress Anne Whitfield, best known for her role as Susan Waverly in the beloved 1954 film White Christmas, has passed away at the age of 85 after an “unexpected accident” while taking a walk near her home in Washington.
Her family announced the tragic news, saying in her obituary, “She was a powerhouse in life, and we hope her immense positive energy flows out to those who had the pleasure of knowing her.”
Growing up in a household that cherished creativity, Whitfield was destined for the arts. Her mother was a speech and drama teacher, and her father served as a music director at the University of Mississippi. It's no surprise that she developed a passion for performance from a young age.
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By the age of seven, Whitfield was already working in radio commercials and shows like Our Miss Brooks and One Man’s Family. This early start marked the beginning of a successful career in entertainment that spanned various mediums.
Her breakthrough came with her role in White Christmas, a part that cemented her place in cinematic history. Throughout the 1950s and '60s, she continued to excel in both television and film, appearing in numerous TV series including Father Knows Best, The Donna Reed Show, Rawhide, and Perry Mason. She also starred in films like Juvenile Jungle and Tick, Tick, Tick, and had a recurring role on Days of Our Lives.
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Later in her career, Whitfield decided to take a step back from the entertainment industry to pursue a degree in communications. She went on to work with the Washington State Department of Ecology, becoming an advocate for environmental responsibility, women's rights, and voter registration.
In her later years, Whitfield developed a passion for hiking. Even at 85, she celebrated her birthday by hiking the Dolomite Mountains in Italy. Sadly, she passed away on February 7, 2024.
This will hit anyone who loves "White Christmas" (and I certainly am one of those people) right in the heart: #AnneWhitfield, who played the grandddauughter of the retired major general turned inn operator (Dean Jagger), has passed. pic.twitter.com/oClTSIWeNv
— Jay Bobbin (@JayBobbin1) February 29, 2024
Whitfield is survived by her three children and seven grandchildren, who remember her as a woman of warmth, resilience, and generosity. Her obituary beautifully encapsulated her life, stating, “She was beloved by her family, who were always her first priority. The life of Anne Langham Whitfield Phillips was a beautiful one, with every second used to uplift the world and those around her.”
Thanks to the kindness of neighbors who provided expert medical support, her family had the opportunity to say goodbye and express their love and gratitude—a gift they will always cherish.
Fans and fellow actors have taken to social media to share their touching tributes to Whitfield.
Truly sad, a great movie and actress. https://t.co/yxKmvZ6eGV?
— Peter Brosnan (@PeterBrosnan111) March 1, 2024
Rest in peace, Anne Whitfield.
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