Sarah Katherine Wellford

1996 - 2022

Sarah Katherine Wellford obituary, 1996-2022, Miami Dade, FL

Sarah Wellford Obituary

WELLFORD, Sarah Katherine, of Miami, Fla., passed away on Saturday, October 29, 2022, at the age of 26.

Sarah was born July 15, 1996; the daughter of Judi Karen Stuart and Vernon Stanley Wellford. Sarah was a 2014 graduate of Atlee High School. After being diagnosed with type 1 diabetes as a teenager, Sarah wanted to help those also affected with diabetes and other autoimmune diseases. That quest took her to Virginia Tech, where she earned her B.S. in Microbiology (2018) while also doing research. She interned at JDRF, the world's largest nonprofit funder of type 1 diabetes research, which allowed the opportunity to see the impact of her research directly helping others. At VT, Sarah was a proud sister of Pi Beta Phi.

Sarah's journey then led her to University of Florida's Brusko Laboratory, continuing the work toward a cure for type 1 diabetes. In August 2021, Sarah transferred to University of Miami to work on her Ph.D., under the guidance of Dr. Thomas Malek, at the Miller School of Medicine. There, she dedicated herself to continuing research on autoimmunity and diabetes. Sarah had recently started her dissertation research and made a promising discovery in a pre-clinical model of type 1 diabetes relating to a new type of immunotherapy that can limit the development of the disease.

Sarah was passionate about science and her love for animals. She adopted her cherished diabetic poodle, April, when the elderly owner could no longer attend to the dog's daily needs. She was fervent in her support of equality for women and in STEM, which works to increase the important representation of women in research. As in her life, Sarah will continue to make a difference; her organs were donated to research through the Life Alliance Recovery Agency.

Sarah was preceded in death by grandparents, Elmer Shell Stuart, Zelda Annis Stanley, Norvell Warren Wellford Jr.; and her uncle, Warren N. Wellford. She is survived by her proud, loving parents, Judi Karen Stuart and Vernon Stanley Wellford of Mechanicsville, Va.; grandmother, Dare Neel Dillman (Harry) of Ceres, Va.; aunt, Mary Penn Boitnott of Rocky Mount, Va.; uncle, Robert Edward Stuart (Tammy) of Mechanicsburg, Va.; cousins, John Robert Boitnott of Roanoke, Va., Brandon Hunter Stuart (Caroline) of Wytheville, Va., Kendall Lewis (Nichol) of Mechanicsburg, Va.; loving boyfriend, Nick Katz of Miami, Fla.; best friend, Shelbie Hopp (James) of West Palm Beach, Fla.; and many other friends Sarah touched throughout her life.

A Celebration of Life is planned for 1:30 p.m. Sunday, November 13, 2022, at Duncan Memorial Methodist Church, 201 Henry Street, Ashland, Va. 23005. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to University of Miami to: Rachel Cameau / Executive Director Development & Alumni Relations / University of Miami Leonard School of Medicine / 1501 NW 9th Ave., 2nd Floor / Miami, Florida 33136 / Please note: Autoimmunity Program Gift Fund. Online at: https://tinyurl.com/2p9ffjcw.

Published by Richmond Times-Dispatch on Nov. 10, 2022.
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Memories and Condolences
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Judi stuart

Family

December 13, 2022

Judi stuart

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Judi stuart

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Judi stuart

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Judi stuart

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Judi stuart

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Judi stuart

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Judi stuart

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Mom

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Mom

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Stan

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November 29, 2022

Stan

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Stan

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Stan

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Stan

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Judi

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Mom

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Grandmother

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Judi and Stan - We were so very sorry to hear of your loss. Please know that are thoughts and prayers have been with you and will continue to be with you and all your family during this difficult time.
Eddie and Patty Morehead

Edward Morehead

Family

November 15, 2022

Nichole Anderson

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November 14, 2022

Nichole Anderson

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Nichole Anderson

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Nichole Anderson

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November 14, 2022

So sorry for the family's loss. Very sad to hear about this. Sincere condolences to you all during this time.

Karen Wilson (from Ashcreek).

Karen Wilson

Other

November 11, 2022

Diabetes Research Institute

November 10, 2022

Stan and Judi - Our family extends our deepest sympathies. Learning of Sarah's passing was immeasurably sad and truly heartbreaking. It was always a pleasure having Sarah around the house not to mention all the laughter, joy and energy she brought when she walked through our door. She will forever be remembered for her determination, courage, commitment, talent and heart. I will cherish all the wonderful memories.

Sandi and Hempel family

November 10, 2022

Lynn Foster

November 10, 2022

Aunt Mary and Cousin John

November 10, 2022

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Memorial Events
for Sarah Wellford

Nov

13

Celebration of Life

1:30 p.m.

Duncan Memorial Methodist Church

201 Henry Street, Ashland, VA

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