Christina Avila

Christina Sarah Avila, a devoted mother, cherished sister, passionate educator, and tireless advocate, passed away peacefully on July 12, 2025, at El Camino Hospital in Mountain View, at the age of 50. She lived with metastatic breast cancer with remarkable courage and grace for nearly five years, following her initial diagnosis in 2013.

Born on February 19, 1975, in San Jose, California, Christy was the cherished daughter of the late Joseph and Alcinda Avila. Her family moved to Morgan Hill in 1977, where she spent her formative years. A proud graduate of Live Oak High School, Christy furthered her education at San Jose State University, earning both her Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in Communication Studies.

Christy served as a respected communication studies instructor, dedicating her passion and intellect to students at Gavilan College and San Jose City College. She took immense pride in her role, particularly in guiding and inspiring first-generation college students and those, like herself, who were children of immigrants. Her commitment to their success was a testament to her generous spirit and belief in the transformative power of education. 

Beyond the classroom, Christy was a fierce advocate for women with breast cancer. She spent her final years working to raise awareness about the options available to women after a mastectomy and tirelessly fighting for informed consent for all cancer patients. She testified before the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, founded an online support community with nearly 20,000 members called ‘Fierce, Flat, Forward,’ and co-founded International Flat Day. In addition, she served as Vice President of the non-profit group Not Putting on a Shirt. Her groundbreaking work has positively impacted thousands of women, empowering them to make choices that honored their bodies and their well-being. She also authored a heartfelt children’s book, “Closer To Her Heart,” to help women navigate conversations with their children and grandchildren about aesthetic flat closure after mastectomy. 

Above all, Christy deeply loved and adored her son, Bishop, who was the light of her life. Their bond was a source of immense joy and strength for her. Christy’s resilience, warmth, unwavering dedication to her family and students, and profound commitment to advocacy will be deeply missed by all who knew her. 

She was preceded in death by her beloved parents and grandparents. She is survived by her loving son, Bishop; her devoted sisters, Michelle Avila and Debbie Avila Stewart; her brothers-in-law, Chris Berthold and Doug Stewart; her cherished nieces and

nephews, Carlton and Amelia Berthold and Anabela and Owen Stewart; Bishop’s father, Thomas Nores; and a large circle of aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who were so very dear to her.

Private services will be held with family and close friends.

In lieu of flowers, Christy’s sisters kindly request that donations be made to either of the following: For her son and other cherished causes: Contributions to Christy’s Legacy Fund will support her adored son, Bishop, and extend support to other causes dear to Christy. For her advocacy work: The Christina Sarah Avila Memorial Fund, 

https://notputtingonashirt.org/MemorialFund/ which benefits women facing breast cancer.