AviAnna Christine Grawey Minard, 5, of Galesburg, passed away at 1:16 p.m. on Friday, July 22, 2022 at OSF St. Mary Medical Center in Galesburg.
Sweet Avi fought so hard in her all to short life on this earth with us, but she was only on loan from God. She was here for a purpose, to teach others to be kind and how to love. Her mom once said, “Avi is non-verbal, but she is so loud in many other ways. She teaches people about kindness and compassion without saying a word.”
Avi was born a baby warrior on May 4, 2017 in Galesburg, the daughter of Shane Keith Minard and Alexandria Christine Grawey. She is survived by her parents, Shane Minard and Lexi Grawey, both of Galesburg; a brother, Hakeem Blakes of Galesburg; maternal grandparents, Amy (Brian) Benak of Shorewood, IL and David (Jennifer Bennett) Grawey of Galesburg; paternal grandma, Karen Cosby; bonus grandma, Brandi Reckman; maternal great-grandparents, Kimberly (Rick) Lipsky of Galesburg, Barbara Benak of Joliet, IL and Stephanie Grawey of Galesburg; and paternal great-grandma, Constance Minard of Galesburg. Also surviving are three uncles, Jonathan (Alexis) Grawey, Keith Minard Jr., and Demaria Cosby, all of Galesburg; two aunts, Lauren (Jason) Warren of Plainsfield, IL and LeAnn Grawey of VA; and many great uncles, great aunts, and cousins. Avi shared a special connection and absolutely adored one of her cousins, “Papa Kinley.” She was preceded in death by her paternal grandpa, Keith Minard; and an uncle, Derek Cosby.
Avi had many nicknames such as Jellybean, Little Nugget, and Bugga Butt. She brought so much love to her family and friends. We know Avi is running and playing under a big rainbow looking at all the beautiful bright colors. She is wrapped in God’s arms free from pain.
Avi loved unicorns, snuggles, watching ‘My Little Pony’, listening to Elvis, and little bites of choco pudding. Her family was devoted to giving her the best life she could have. Avi was blessed to have the most dedicated mommy who worked endlessly to care for and love her. She was a sweet, sassy, and silly little girl and was so full of love. God gave us the most beautiful girl and we were so blessed.
The family would like to give a special thank you to her home health nurse, Darlene.
Visitation will be from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursday, July 28, 2022 at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory in Galesburg. Cremation will be accorded following the visitation. A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, July 29, 2022 at Memorial Park Cemetery in Galesburg. Father Lee Brokaw will officiate. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Memorials may be made to GHAS (Galesburg Hospitals Ambulance Service). Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.
