By Connie Bowker
White Christmas star Anne Whitfield has died at the age of 85.
Her grieving family have said the star's death comes following a tragic "unexpected accident" near her home in Washington. Anne was out for a walk around her neighbourhood when the incident occurred.
The star, who is best known for playing Susan Waverly in the 1954 classic White Christmas, died on February 15 with her family by her side in a hospital in Washington. Her family have released a heartbreaking statement.
They wrote: "The life of Anne Langham Whitfield Phillips was a beautiful one, with every second used to uplift the world and those around her. Through the kindness of neighbours who provided expert medical support, family had the gift to say goodbye and express love and gratitude, a gift we will always cherish."
For all the latest on news, politics, sports, and showbiz from the USA, go toThe Mirror US.
According to Anne's obituary, her last Christmas was a happy one. It read: "Just this past December during the holidays, Annie was able to watch White Christmas with her family on the movie’s 70th anniversary."
It continued: "Although Annie was a talented actor, Los Angeles didn’t have enough trees for her and she left Hollywood for her new life 'up north' in the 1970's. During this transition, Annie became devoted to causes that promote Peace and preserve nature. After 'retiring', Annie worked tirelessly as an activist and community organiser, working right up until the day she passed away."
The star leaves behind three children and seven grandchildren, which were the most "precious part" of her life. Her family said: "The most precious part of Annie’s life were her three children and seven grandchildren. She was beloved by her family, who were always her first priority."
Anne's funeral will be held on March 22. Mourners are encouraged to make charitable donations or plant trees in her memory.
The stage, screen and radio star was born on August 27 1938 and was raised in Mississippi. She began her performing career as a child and her mother brought her to Hollywood at the young age of four to kickstart her career in show business.
Anne started her theatre work in 1949 and starred in numerous iconic theatre shows, including Annie Get Your Gun. The next year she began landing a number of TV and film roles, seeing her make small appearances inn Racket Squad, One Man's Family, and Hollywood Opening Night.
But Anne's most memorable role came in 1954. When she was only 15 years old, the star landed a starring role in the musical comedy White Christmas, playing Susan Waverly.
The star continued to perform small roles throughout the 1980s and 1990s and made her final appearance in Robert Altman's 1999 drama-comedy Cookie's Fortune.
