“Our hearts are broken.” Mobile 4-year-old dies from flu complications, family says

MOBILE, Ala. (WXXV) — A preschooler is dead after suffering complications from the flu, according to the child’s family.

Anna Kate Wilkerson’s father says that he believes his 4-year-old passed away Saturday due to complications from influenza Type A, but he says they are still waiting on official confirmation.

Her younger brother, Fisher, is currently hospitalized with the flu. The father expects the toddler will be released from the hospital Thursday.

Photo: Wilkerson Family

Anna Kate was a K3 student at UMS-Wright Preparatory School.

“Whether at school, dance or in the neighborhood, Anna Kate never met a child she didn’t want as her best friend. Her infectious smile and confidence allowed her to have many “best friends” both young and old. She was kind beyond imagination, especially to her younger brother, Fisher,” her obituary says.

“Anna Kate was the bright light that sparkled in everything she did. She loved building projects and go-karts with her dad, shopping and playing princess and dress up with her mom and playing outside with her little brother.”

Anna Kate Wilkerson. Photo: Wilkerson Family

Several people in the Mobile community have expressed support after a GoFundMe page was set up to help the family with the cost of funeral arrangements.

The family invites everyone to celebrate Anna Kate’s life on Sunday, February 9 at Christ United Methodist Church located at 6101 Grelot Road, Mobile, Alabama 36609. Visitation is at 12:30 and  the service will be at 2:00 p.m.