Actress Anne Whitfield, whose career ranged from Hollywood’s golden age to environmental activism, died at the age of 85 after an accident.
Whitfield, most recognized for her role as Susan Waverly in the 1954 Christmas classic “White Christmas,” led a life marked by her diverse skills and dedication to improving the world.
Whitfield was born on August 27, 1938, in Oxford, Mississippi, and started her acting career at the tender age of four. Her early roles were in radio shows, a platform where she perfected her skills before transitioning to film and television. Whitfield’s role in “White Christmas,” alongside Bing Crosby, propelled her to fame at fifteen, marking the start of her lengthy and diverse career in entertainment.
Following her Hollywood tenure, Whitfield committed herself to causes of environmental and social justice. She obtained her bachelor’s degree from Evergreen State College and served as a clean water steward at the Washington State Department of Ecology. Even after retirement, she maintained her political involvement, advocating for issues related to climate change, politics, feminism, poverty, and refugees.
The sudden death of Whitfield on February 15, 2024, in Yakima, Washington, caught many by surprise. She was hospitalized after an accident during a neighborhood walk—a tragic turn for an otherwise lively and influential life. Her legacy, however, lives on through her work in entertainment and activism.
Throughout her career, Whitfield featured in various films, TV shows, and radio programs, demonstrating her adaptability as an actress. Her roles in “Juvenile Jungle,” “Tick, Tick, Tick,” and appearances in “Days of Our Lives,” “Perry Mason,” and “The Magical World of Disney” serve as a testament to her extensive repertoire.
Her role in “White Christmas” has remained a fan favorite, earning her a place in the hearts of multiple generations of viewers. The film, which marked its 70th anniversary shortly before Whitfield’s death, continues to be a holiday tradition, with Whitfield’s performance as Susan Waverly at the center.
Whitfield’s commitment to environmental activism was equally noteworthy. As a clean water steward and climate activist, she dedicated her efforts to promoting sustainable practices and policies. Her actions were motivated by a profound concern for the environment and a vision for future generations to flourish in a world marked by acceptance, natural beauty, and the end of political and social injustice.
She is survived by three children and seven grandchildren, who remember her not merely as a successful actress but as a dedicated mother, grandmother, and advocate for the causes she held dear.
