Ava Merle Kilmer

Ava was born on July 11, 2003, in Hagerstown, Maryland, and raised in Martinsburg, West Virginia, where she carried the warmth, humor, and compassion of home with her wherever she went. She was a senior at Christopher Newport University—a place she lovingly called her home away from home—where she was pursuing a degree in Biochemistry. Her passion for science, her curiosity about the world, and her drive to make a difference were just a few of the many ways she inspired those around her.

Ava had a deep love for the outdoors—especially hiking and everything nature had to offer. Whether exploring trails or simply taking in a sunset, she felt most at peace under the open sky. She had a radiant love for life that was infectious and uplifting.

She had a gift for making people laugh, often with a quick wit and a sense of humor that could brighten even the darkest moments. She was the kind of person who always checked in, always cared, and always made sure the people around her were okay. Her heart was as big as her laugh.

Ava adored her pets—especially her beloved dog, Ella, affectionately known as Chunk—and shared a special bond with them that brought her comfort and joy.

She was the cherished daughter of Logan and Andrea Kilmer, and a deeply loved sister to Tobin Kilmer and his girlfriend, Regan Wilson. Ava also leaves behind her grandmothers, Catherine Miller and Judy Stains; her uncles, Sean Miller and Jason Miller, along with Jason’s partner, Allie Reboulet; her aunt and uncle, Heather and Chris Puller, and their sons, Mitchell and Colin; her uncle and aunt, Bill and Josa Kilmer, and their daughter, Michele. Ava was preceded in death by her grandfathers, William H. Kilmer, Sr., Dean Miller, and Donald Stains.

Ava is also survived by her bonus brother, Alex Whitten, who brought love and laughter into her life. Additionally, her dear boyfriend, Eric Brown, Jr., was a constant source of unwavering support, love, and joy. Their relationship was built on a foundation of deep connection, shared laughter, and mutual respect. Eric stood by Ava through both the brightest days and the toughest moments, offering her a love that was unconditional and filled with understanding.

Ava’s compassion, intelligence, adventurous spirit, and genuine care for others made her truly one of a kind. Though her time here was far too short, her impact will be felt forever by those who knew and loved her.

Services will be open to the public and held at Rosedale Funeral Home and Cemetery, 917 Cemetery Road, Martinsburg, WV. Visitation will begin at 1:00 p.m., with a service to follow at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, April 18, 2025.