Ava Skye Perrella

Ava Skye Perrella, 10, of Milford, passed away peacefully 6/6/2022 at Yale New Haven Children’s Hospital after a brief illness surrounded by her loving parents James and Gail Perrella.

Ava was born 5/30/2012 at a beautiful home birth In Milford, CT. Ava, who was born with Down Syndrome, lived a full and extraordinary life in such a short period of time. In 2014 Ava was crowned Connecticut Little Miss Rising Star in the Miss CT Organization, appeared on billboards in Time-Square for NYC Buddy Walk Day, and began to show the world how powerful and impactful a girl with Down Syndrome can be. In 2018 she developed a passion for cheerleading becoming the first member of the MEPW Challenger Cheer team where she brought thousands to their feet at competitions. She loved her time on the mat and spending time with the junior coaches she grew so fond of. Ava was finishing 3rd grade and developing at a rapid rate due to the efforts of her family and the amazing educators, therapists, and paraprofessional’s that she built a special bond with.

Ava wasn’t just special because she had Down Syndrome, it’s because she had the ability to light up every room with the potency of her spirit.  She was a smart, sweet, sassy, vibrant, and compassionate soul with an infectious smile that would make your day and give the best hugs.  In just a short 10 years Ava made an impact on her community and the world. Her legacy will continue to grow by all those lives she touched.

Ava is survived by her parents, James and Gail Perrella;  Brother, Hunter Perrella; Several Aunts, Uncles, and Cousins. Ava is predeceased by her Paternal Grandparents, Barbara and Joseph Perrella and Maternal Grandparents, Sidney and Theresa Brayton.

The family would like to express their appreciation to all the educators and school staff that touched Ava’s life in the Milford Education system, also her after school sitters she built a special sister bond with.  We are also grateful for all the medical professionals at Yale in the ER, PICU, and Child Life that showed such compassion towards Ava and us during this unimaginable time.

A Gathering to Celebrate the Life of a special person will take place Tuesday 6/14/2022 at Ava’s favorite ice cream and sunset spot, Gulf Beach from 5:30-7:00 p.m. to share memories with a prayer service to take place at 7:00 p.m. The family encourages everyone to wear purple and to please refrain from wearing black. Feel free to bring a blanket or chair.  In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Ava's Memorial and Family Support Page at

 https://www.gofundme.com/f/Ava-Skye-Perrella?utm_campaign=p_nacp+share-sheet&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook

Arrangements have been compassionately cared for by the GREGORY F. DOYLE FUNERAL HOME, 291 BRIDGEPORT AVENUE, MILFORD. Interment will be held in private. To share a memory, please go to www.gregoryfdoylefuneralhome.com

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