Avery Rian Shacklette, age 21, entered Heaven far too soon on May 11, 2026, leaving behind a family, community, and circle of friends profoundly impacted by her remarkable life, unwavering faith, and unforgettable spirit. Born on August 28, 2004, Avery was the beloved daughter of Travis and Sarah Shacklette, devoted sister to Drake Shacklette, and cherished companion of Luke Millay. She was also deeply loved by her extended family, including grandparents Sharon and Eddie Bruner, Ricky and Barbara Rhodes, Virginia “Ginger” Arnce, and Ray Shacklette, along with countless aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends whose lives were forever changed by knowing her.
Avery is now reunited in Heaven with her great-grandparents Martha Nell “Meme” and Kenny “Peeps” Barger, Walter and Emilee Rhodes, Ruby and Garland Shacklette, Emma and Buddy Wilkins, and her uncle Bradley Rhodes. Though her time on earth was brief, the impact she made was immeasurable and will be felt for generations.
A graduate of Kentucky Wesleyan College, Avery lived a life marked by excellence, discipline, and extraordinary achievement. She was a student-athlete who competed as an NCAA Division II golfer while simultaneously excelling in academics, consistently earning placement on both the Dean’s List and President’s List. Her drive extended far beyond the classroom and athletic field. Avery worked full-time, managed a successful photography business, served as a board member for Friday After 5, participated in the NCAA Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC), and earned numerous scholarships and awards. She embodied ambition, resilience, and determination in every area of her life.
Those who knew Avery describe her as one of a kind—a young woman whose intelligence, independence, and work ethic were matched only by her compassion and kindness. She had a rare ability to make people feel seen, valued, and deeply loved. Her smile could brighten any space, and her presence brought comfort and joy to everyone around her.
Avery’s faith in Christ was central to who she was. She lived with purpose, humility, and grace, guided by her strong spiritual foundation. Her love for God shaped the way she treated others, always with kindness, generosity, and sincerity. Family members say she was the “glue” that held people together, constantly uplifting those around her.
She found beauty in life’s simplest gifts—sunrises, sunsets, the river, the ocean, music, travel, and time spent with her beloved dog Piper. She was also a gifted artist, talented photographer, passionate cook, and creative soul who brought beauty into everything she touched.
Avery will be remembered as strong, fearless, compassionate, and full of light. Her legacy lives on through the lives she inspired, the love she shared, and the example she set of what it means to live fully and faithfully.
Funeral services will be held at St. Theresa of Avila Catholic Church, followed by burial in the church cemetery. She will be forever remembered with deep love, gratitude, and admiration.
