Avery Marie Lafferty, 12, gained her angel wings on July 12, 2024.

Avery Marie Lafferty, 12, gained her angel wings on July 12, 2024 after courageously battling Diffuse Midline Glioma, an aggressive form of brain cancer, since December of 2021. Born on June 11, 2012, at Griffin Hospital in Derby, she was the beloved daughter of Paul and Lisa Lafferty.

Avery's vibrant spirit and determination were evident in every aspect of her life. She excelled in athletics, particularly soccer, where she played primarily as a center midfielder. Her passion for alpine skiing was evident, competing in moguls and qualifying for the Eastern “Young Guns” Championships in 2023. She achieved notable victories, including winning the Gladiator at Mt. Snow in 2019 and earning the Phil Holmes Sportsmanship award in Eastern Freestyle Skiing in 2024.

Avery was a dedicated student who adored the school environment. Academically gifted, Avery's mathematical prowess shined brightly. Her love for numbers and building things was evident from a young age, and carried through right up until her passing. She earned the Superintendent Leadership Award in 2023 for her outstanding academic achievements and in 2024 was honored to receive the Respect Award in honor of Dylan Fortunato. Illustrating her determination, she maintained straight A+’s and honors with distinction as she balanced much time away from school to attend her medical appointments.

Avery's quick wit, sarcasm, and infectious laughter endeared her to all who knew her. She was a prankster, and loved to make us laugh with her practical jokes and tricks. She adored her sister, Alexis, with whom she shared an unbreakable bond, spending countless hours together playing sports and various games, or just laughing and hanging out. They were and always will be the best of friends. Avery loved her dog, Rosie, and enjoyed family games of Dominos, Monopoly and Uno up until her final days.

In her short but impactful life, Avery touched the hearts of many with her kindness, determination, and unwavering courage. She leaves behind a lasting legacy of love, laughter, and inspiration.

Along with her devoted parents, Avery is also survived by her beloved sister, Alexis Jade Lafferty; doting grandparents, Robert and Anelia Roy, Paul Andrew Lafferty; aunt, Colleen (Jude) Pierre; cousins, Angeline and Robert Pierre; uncle Scott (Cerissa) Lafferty; cousins Winter and Tucker Lafferty. Avery was predeceased by her grandmother, Margo Arlene Lafferty. She also leaves behind her loyal pup, Rosie, and many teammates and good friends.

Viewing services will be held on Friday, July 26th, 2024 from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Cody White Funeral home at 107 Broad Street in Milford, CT. A Memorial Service will be held at 10am on Saturday, July 27th, 2024 at the First United Church of Christ at 34 West Main Street in Milford, CT. The church service will also be live streamed and can be accessed through the church’s website at https://events.locallive.tv/worship/first-united-church-milford.

In lieu of flowers, Avery’s family and close friends have formally incorporated Avery’s Little Army as a non-profit charity to advance pediatric, brain and other cancer research while providing support to battling families. Please join us in continuing the fight in her name at www.averyslittlearmy.org. Every dollar counts.