Avery Grace Tincher was born March 31, 2016, with a rare heart condition, hypoplastic left heart syndrome with an intact septum. After many doctor appointments and evaluations, it became apparent that Avery would need a heart transplant. This required Avery to live in the hospital until the perfect heart was available. After 11 months, that beautiful gift arrived May 11, 2018, and the surgery was a huge success. From that day on, her new heart functioned as it was intended, but the battle was not over. Avery’s lungs were very weak due to her underlying conditions and she required oxygen support her entire life. Hospital visits and stays were a part of her life, staying approximately 18 months of her short six years until her body could not continue the fight anymore.
From looking for stop signs in the car ride to reading her Daniel Tiger books in the hospital, every moment was a joyful one to Avery. She was sick her whole life, but it was just normal to her. Although she had some physical setbacks, her mind was brilliant. She amazed her tutors on how quickly she picked up on things, and how she thoroughly loved to learn. She was quick to point out if her books were out of order, or if something was placed not where she wanted it. She would remember the entire weeks schedule from telling it to her just once. Although it took a little time, she did love her brother so much! She found it funny how he would try to repeat what she was saying. She tricked him to make her laugh. Avery never liked being the center of attention, but she was always in it as her beautiful strength was acknowledged in anything and everything she did.
Avery’s limitations didn’t keep her from enjoying life to the fullest. She was an adventurer and a dare devil. She was blessed with many trips camping, going to the beach, going to Disney World, and many boat rides. We should all try to enjoy life through the same lens that Avery did. From peacefully standing on the beach letting the waves wash up on her feet to feeling the wind on a fast roller coaster, there was pure joy and beauty on her face. Things most of us take for granted was a once in a lifetime type experience for her. Her beautiful eyes, contagious smile, and her laughter will forever be missed, but the impact she left will never be forgotten.
Avery peacefully passed away Feb 15, 2023, held by her mother and father, surrounded by the doctors and nurses that cared for her her entire life. Avery was survived by her parents Michael and Lindsey Beth; her brother, Caleb; her grandparents Steve and Anne Tincher, and Benny and Karen Medlen; great-grandparents, Hoyt and Marlyn Harris, Benny and Joan Medlen, and Frances Coltrane; aunt and uncle, Chris and Anna Tincher, and cousin Charlie, aunt and uncle, Joey and Kelly Runnels, and aunt, Kristy Medlen.
Visitation will be at Willowbrook Baptist Church on Bailey Cove Saturday, February 18 from 12 to 2 p.m. with service to follow at 2 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, make donations to in memory of Avery Tincher/Heart Center to: Children’s of Alabama Foundation, Attn: Leann Pelliccio, 1600 7th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35233.
