Remembering Garrison Brown: A Heartbreaking Loss for the Brown Family
The Brown family, known for their reality TV show Sister Wives, has faced a tremendous loss with the passing of Garrison Brown, the 25-year-old son of Janelle and Kody Brown. Garrison died by suicide on March 5, 2024, leaving his family and fans in shock and grief. This article delves into the final hours of Garrison’s life, the family’s struggle with his mental health, and the lasting impact of his memory.
Garrison’s Final Hours: A Mother’s Perspective
Janelle Brown, Garrison’s mother, shared the details of the day before his death. On March 4, 2024, Janelle was traveling back to Flagstaff after recently relocating to North Carolina to be closer to her eldest daughter, Madison Brush, her son-in-law, Caleb Brush, and their children. Despite the distance, Janelle and Garrison were in constant communication, texting throughout the day—a routine that was not unusual for them. Janelle recalled that Garrison was struggling with anxiety and depression, and she made it a point to always be available for him, responding to all his messages and calls.
On that fateful evening, Janelle noticed that Garrison had stopped responding to her texts. While she was not immediately alarmed, knowing that Garrison had been dealing with cycles of drinking, she decided to reach out to her other sons, Logan and Hunter, for support. Confident that her older sons would check on their brother, Janelle went to bed, unaware of the tragic events that would unfold.
The next morning, Janelle received the devastating news from her son Gabriel, who found Garrison unresponsive. The moments that followed were a blur for Janelle, filled with shock and grief. She immediately drove to Garrison’s home, calling her daughter Maddie along the way. The family quickly rallied around her, offering what little comfort they could in such a painful time.
The Family’s Struggle with Garrison’s Mental Health
Garrison’s battle with anxiety and depression was no secret to his family. Janelle and Kody had been actively involved in supporting him, along with their other children. The family had tag-teamed to ensure Garrison felt connected and supported, often checking in on him and encouraging him to seek help. Despite their best efforts, Garrison’s struggles persisted, and his drinking became a coping mechanism that ultimately worsened his condition.
Janelle explained that Garrison’s drinking had become a cycle he couldn’t escape, describing it as ‘the animal he couldn’t get a hold of.’ The family’s efforts to help him were relentless, but Garrison’s mental health struggles proved to be overwhelming. His death serves as a stark reminder of the complexities of mental illness and the importance of seeking help.
Saying Goodbye: Garrison’s Final Resting Place
In the aftermath of Garrison’s death, Kody and Janelle made the difficult decision to cremate him, honoring what they believed were his wishes. They chose to hold the funeral at a later time, selecting a family plot in Wyoming as his final resting place—a location that held special meaning for Garrison, who loved the peace and beauty of the area. Kody reflected on the decision, expressing his desire to ‘take his boy home’ and lay him to rest next to his grandmother, Cheryl.
The family’s unity in this decision highlighted their shared grief and commitment to honoring Garrison’s memory. Despite their differences, Kody and Janelle were in agreement about what would be the best way to celebrate Garrison’s life and provide closure for their family.
The Brown Family: A Legacy of Love and Strength
The Brown family, known for their unique dynamics as one of the most prominent polygamous families in the United States, has always been a source of fascination for fans of Sister Wives. With 18 children among Kody’s four wives—Meri, Janelle, Christine, and Robyn—the family has faced numerous challenges over the years, but their resilience and love for one another have always shone through.
From Logan, the eldest son, to Ariella, the youngest daughter, each member of the Brown family has their own unique story and struggles. The family’s experiences, including Leon’s journey as a transgender individual and Ysabel’s battles with scoliosis, have been openly shared with the public, offering a glimpse into the complexities of their lives.
A Call to Action: The Importance of Mental Health Awareness
Garrison’s death has brought mental health awareness to the forefront, urging fans and viewers to reflect on the importance of seeking help and supporting loved ones who may be struggling. The Brown family’s openness about Garrison’s struggles serves as a reminder that mental illness can affect anyone, regardless of their background or circumstances.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues or suicidal thoughts, please reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or mental health professional. Resources such as the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (call or text 988) are available 24/7 to provide support and guidance.
A Final Tribute to Garrison Brown
Garrison Brown’s life may have been cut short, but his memory will live on through the countless lives he touched. His family’s love and support, even in the face of unimaginable grief, serve as a testament to the strength and resilience that has always defined the Brown family. As they navigate this difficult time, fans around the world continue to send their thoughts, prayers, and condolences to Janelle, Kody, and the entire Brown family.
Garrison’s story is a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of mental health awareness. His legacy will continue to inspire others to seek help, to speak openly about their struggles, and to never lose hope, even in the darkest of times.
