Remembering Avery Koonce: A Life of Promise, Passion, and Perseverance

Avery Koonce was not only a gifted athlete but also a remarkable young woman whose determination and kindness left a lasting impression on everyone around her. At Thrall High School in Texas, she became known as a powerhouse on the track, shattering records in the 100- and 200-meter sprints. Her relentless dedication earned her a place at the prestigious U.S. Air Force Academy, where she joined the women’s track and field team with dreams of soaring even higher. Tragically, her journey ended far too soon at just 19 years old.

A Sudden Loss

On September 4, 2024, emergency personnel responded to a call from Avery’s dorm at the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs. Fellow cadets had discovered her unconscious and quickly sought help, but despite immediate efforts, she could not be revived. Her sudden passing stunned not only her family and friends but also the Academy community.

An autopsy by the El Paso County Coroner later revealed that Avery’s death was linked to pneumonia complications. The official cause was “Paeniclostridium sordellii sepsis complicating parainfluenza laryngotracheobronchitis”—a rare, aggressive bacterial infection that developed after a viral respiratory illness weakened her system.

The Rare Infection Behind Her Death

Paeniclostridium sordellii is an uncommon but extremely dangerous bacterium. Once in the bloodstream, it can spread rapidly and cause a toxic-shock-like response. In Avery’s case, the bacteria affected her left lung after she had been battling a persistent cough—something that may have appeared harmless but masked a far more serious illness.

Medical experts later explained that early diagnosis and antibiotics might have saved her life. Forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Baden described her death as essentially the result of untreated pneumonia, emphasizing that symptoms like fever, labored breathing, or severe cough should never be overlooked.

A Young Woman With Big Dreams

Avery’s passing came just as she was beginning her college career. A Thrall High School graduate, she had excelled not only in track but in a wide range of activities: cheerleading, cross country, band, and even powerlifting. She was also a top student, balancing her busy schedule with academic excellence.

At the Air Force Academy, Avery had set her sights on majoring in biology with a kinesiology minor. Her ultimate goal was to become a physical therapist, helping pilots stay strong and recover from injuries—a path that combined her love for athletics, science, and service.

Honoring Her Memory

Her death deeply shook both her hometown and the Academy. On September 12, a memorial was held at Tiger Stadium in Thrall, Texas. Nearly 100 cadets from Colorado traveled to pay their respects, a powerful reflection of the bonds Avery had already built in such a short time.

Lieutenant General Tony Bauernfeind, Superintendent of the Academy, honored her at the service, calling her “an incredible teammate” whose energy and positivity left an unmistakable mark on her squadron, her class, and her track team.

A Family’s Tribute

Avery’s parents released a heartfelt statement through the Academy, describing her as “an incredibly bright light in this broken world.” They expressed gratitude for the 19 years they were blessed with her presence and comfort in the belief that she is now in God’s care.

“Avery was not perfect, but she was the perfect daughter for us,” they wrote. “She loved her brothers deeply, and now our only focus is learning how to live with her absence. Though the grief is immense, we are grateful for every moment we had with her.”

A Legacy That Lives On

Though Avery’s life ended far too soon, her legacy continues through those she inspired. Her discipline, her warmth, and her ambition remind others to chase their dreams with the same intensity she did. She was more than a cadet, more than an athlete—she was a daughter, a friend, and a beacon of determination whose light still shines.

Avery Koonce will be remembered not just for her speed on the track, but for the love, drive, and kindness she shared with the world.