Anne Whitfield, the beloved star of “White Christmas,” has passed away at the age of 85.

Her family shared the heartbreaking news, revealing that the veteran actress died in an “unexpected accident” while she was out for a walk near her home in Washington, D.C.

Whitfield was best known for her role as Susan Waverly in the 1954 holiday classic, “White Christmas.”

She passed away at Valley Memorial Hospital in Yakima, Washington, with her family by her side.

In a statement, her family expressed their deep loss: “Anne Langham Whitfield Phillips lived a beautiful life, dedicating every moment to uplifting the world and those around her.”

“Thanks to the kindness of neighbors who provided expert medical care, the family was given the precious opportunity to say their goodbyes and share their love and gratitude—a gift they will forever treasure.

Just this past December, during the holiday season, Annie had the joy of watching White Christmas with her family, marking the movie’s 70th anniversary,” reads Whitfield’s obituary.

“Annie was a gifted actor, but Los Angeles didn’t offer enough nature for her liking. So, in the 1970s, she left Hollywood and embarked on a new life ‘up north.’

During this period of transition, Annie became passionately committed to causes that promote peace and protect the environment.

Even after she ‘retired,’ Annie tirelessly worked as an activist and community organizer, continuing her efforts right up until the day she passed away.”

Annie cherished her three children and seven grandchildren, who were the center of her life.

“Her family always came first; she was deeply loved by them.”

Her passing will leave a void in the hearts of her three children and seven grandchildren.

Annie, a legendary performer, actor, and radio host, was born on August 27, 1938, in Oxford, Mississippi.

She began her acting career as a child, participating in radio dramas. While attending UCLA, she continued to pursue acting and worked on various radio shows.

Annie’s mother moved with her to Hollywood when she was just four years old to help her embark on a career in show business.

“STRIVE TO THE END”
During this time, her father was stationed overseas, leading the Army Band.

Annie’s career in theater began in 1949, and she starred in numerous productions, including “Annie Get Your Gun.”

The following year, she began landing small roles in television shows such as “Racket Squad,” “One Man’s Family,” and “Hollywood Opening Night.” She also appeared in several minor film roles.

In 1954, at just 15 years old, Annie played the lead role in the musical comedy “White Christmas.”

Susan Waverly was portrayed by a young actress who played the granddaughter of Major General Thomas Waverly, the owner of the Columbia Inn hotel. This is the setting where Danny Kaye’s character, Phil Davis, and Bing Crosby’s character, Bob Wallace, perform.

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Whitfield continued to take on small roles in various films. Her final film appearance was in Robert Altman’s 1999 comedy, Cookie’s Fortune.