Sevier County, Arkansas – The tight-knit community of De Queen and Lockesburg is grappling with profound grief following the death of 2‑year‑old Ava Ann Marie Tabor, whose funeral arrangements have now been revealed. The toddler, described by her parents as a “bright and joyful” little girl, died on March 4, 2025, in Little Rock’s Children’s Hospital after suffering fatal injuries. A funeral service will take place on Thursday, March 13, at 2 p.m., with visitation scheduled for the previous evening, Wednesday, March 12, from 6–8 p.m., at Chandler Funeral Home in De Queen.
Born November 28, 2022, in Texarkana, Ava had only just begun to explore the world around her. She delighted in dancing, helping in the kitchen, and lighting up every room with her “sky‑blue eyes” and radiant smile . Family members recall her as a tender-hearted child full of curiosity and affection.
On March 1, 2025, tragedy struck in a Lockesburg home where 19‑year‑old Wesley Davis was babysitting Ava. Deputies were called to the residence around 8:40 p.m. and discovered Ava unresponsive and severely beaten. She was rushed to the hospital in critical condition and succumbed to her injuries three days later.
Wesley Davis was arrested and initially charged with first‑degree domestic battery. Following Ava’s death, prosecutors upgraded the charges to first‑degree murder, and later to capital murder, citing the child’s tender age as an aggravating factor. Davis faces the possibility of life in prison or even the death penalty. His bond was set at $1 million, along with a no-contact order between him and Ava’s family.
The case has ignited strong emotions throughout the region. Sevier County Sheriff Robert Gentry expressed deep sorrow over the horrific loss and acknowledged the community’s anguish, stating: “There have been death threats, and we have had threats of bodily injuries and harm to Mr. Davis” . Despite the unrest, law enforcement urges the public to remain patient and allow the legal process to unfold .
In the aftermath of Ava’s passing, her mother, Kylie Marie Perez, took to social media to express her heartbreak and determination. In a poignant message, she wrote:
“Our very last time holding our baby… No more Ava kisses, no more hearing ‘momma c’mon’… WESLEY DAVIS, you took this from me. YOU TOOK EVERYTHING I LIVED FOR. I WILL NOT STOP UNTIL YOU GET WHAT YOU DESERVE.”
In one final act of compassion, Ava’s family elected to donate her organs, offering a legacy of life amid their profound suffering .
Local authorities and advocacy groups emphasize the importance of raising awareness around child abuse and early signs of harm. This case underscores the need for vigilance—particularly in caretaking situations—where even brief moments of neglect or violence can cost a child their life.
As the community prepares to say goodbye, De Queen and Lockesburg residents are rallying to support Ava’s grieving family. Florists, local businesses, and neighbors have offered flowers, donations, and efforts to cover funeral costs.
This tragedy offers a stark reminder of the fragility of childhood and the sanctity every child deserves. As Arkansas mourns, there is a shared hope that Ava’s death will not be in vain—that justice will prevail and her story prompts deeper reflection on how society cares for its most vulnerable.
To the Tabor–Perez family and all who loved sweet Ava: may you find solace in community, strength in shared sorrow, and comfort in the lasting impact of her gentle spirit.
