Avery Grace Koonce, a 19-year-old cadet at the U.S. Air Force Academy, passed away on September 4, 2024, in her dormitory in Colorado Springs. Her death was attributed to sepsis caused by the rare bacterium Paeniclostridium sordellii, complicating a parainfluenza-induced laryngotracheobronchitis—a severe viral respiratory infection . This combination led to a rapid and fatal progression of illness, despite the potential for treatment with timely medical intervention.(Taylor News, New York Post)
Born on September 1, 2005, in Round Rock, Texas, Avery was a standout student and athlete at Thrall High School. She excelled in cross country, track and field, powerlifting, and cheerleading, and held leadership roles such as student council president and National Honor Society president . Her athletic prowess earned her a spot on the Air Force Academy’s women’s track and field team, and she aspired to become a physical therapist for pilots .(taylorprovidencefuneralhome.com, FOX 7 Austin, International Business Times UK)
Avery’s sudden passing deeply affected her community and the Academy. A memorial service held on September 12 at Tiger Stadium in Thrall, Texas, was attended by family, friends, and over 100 cadets from the Academy . During the service, her track shoes were presented to her parents, symbolizing her dedication and spirit.(International Business Times UK, Taylor News, People.com)
Her parents, Eric and Kelly Koonce, remembered Avery as “an incredibly bright light in this broken world,” expressing that their lives are forever changed by her absence . Avery’s legacy continues to inspire those who knew her, embodying resilience, compassion, and a commitment to excellence.(New York Post, taylorprovidencefuneralhome.com)
