Anne Whitfield, best known for her role in the 1954 classic *White Christmas*, has passed away at the age of 85. Her family shared that the actress died in an “unexpected accident” while out for a walk near her home in Washington, D.C. Read More
Whitfield portrayed Susan Waverly, the granddaughter of Major General Waverly, in the beloved holiday film. Her family remembered her fondly, saying, “The life of Anne Langham Whitfield Phillips was a beautiful one, with every second used to uplift the world and those around her.”
Despite leaving Hollywood in the 1970s, Whitfield remained active in causes promoting peace and protecting nature. “Los Angeles didn’t have enough trees for her,” they noted in her obituary.
Her legacy includes not only her work as an actor but also her commitment to activism and community organizing. “She was beloved by her family, who were always her first priority.”
Whitfield’s family confirmed the tragic news, sharing that the actress died on February 14, 2024, at Valley Memorial Hospital in Yakima, Washington. The accident occurred during a routine walk in her neighborhood, and despite the swift medical attention provided by neighbors, Whitfield succumbed to her injuries.
Born on August 27, 1938, in Oxford, Mississippi, Anne Langham Whitfield began her illustrious career as a child actor. She moved to Hollywood at the age of four and quickly found success on popular radio shows such as The Phil Harris-Alice Faye Show and One Man’s Family. At just 15, she landed her most iconic role as Susan Waverly in White Christmas, where she starred alongside Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney, and Vera-Ellen.
Whitfield’s career spanned several decades, with notable appearances on television shows including Father Knows Best, 77 Sunset Strip, Perry Mason, The Donna Reed Show, and The Six Million Dollar Man. In the 1970s, she transitioned away from Hollywood, moving to Olympia, Washington, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in communications and worked for the State of Washington’s Department of Ecology.
An advocate for environmental causes and community activism, Whitfield remained active in her later years, running a bed and breakfast and participating in various social justice initiatives. Her family described her as a “powerhouse in life” and expressed hope that her positive energy would continue to inspire those who knew her.
Whitfield’s passing marks the end of an era for fans of classic cinema and television. Her contributions to the entertainment industry and her dedication to community service leave a lasting legacy.
