The Brown family, who rose to fame documenting their lives on the popular reality show Sister Wives, is mourning a big loss. On Tuesday, March 5, 2024, Janelle and Kody Brown took to Instagram to announce the death of their son, Garrison Brown. He was 25 years old.
Janelle and Kody were spiritually married in 1993 and that union created six children. The Brown family practiced polygamy so at one time Kody was married to four women. Janelle and Kody separated in 2022. Kody is currently only married to Robyn.
“Kody and I are deeply saddened to announce the loss of our beautiful boy Robert Garrison Brown,” Janelle and Kody’s statement began. “He was a bright spot in the lives of all who knew him. His loss will leave such a big hole in our lives that it takes our breath away. We ask that you please respect our privacy and join us in honoring his memory.”
Garrison’s brother, Gabriel, found his body according to Lieutenant Charles M. Hernandez II of the Flagstaff Police Department in Arizona. It is believed that Garrison died by suicide. The investigation is still ongoing but it is not believed there was any foul play.
Janelle had become concerned about Garrison’s emotional well-being since his relationship with Kody became strained and expressed this on the series. “I have worried about my boys’ mental health. Gabriel feels everything very, very deeply. But he’s also the kid who doesn’t say anything,” she stated. She went on to say that Garrison “just seems angry or sadder, like, he’s not as happy-go-lucky as he used to be.”
Kody also confessed to the tension in the family in an episode which aired in May 2023. “I haven’t been in touch with Gabriel and Garrison for quite a while,” he stated. “I’m pretty sad that I’m not close [to them] anymore. There was just so many things in our lives that we did that were rich together, you know, just special experiences. I think and hope that in time we’ll just get over this and that we’ll be safe being back around each other. Right now, there’s not really an open door with Gabe and Garrison.”
TLC, the network that aired the series, issued a statement about Garrison’s death. “We are devastated to hear of the tragic loss of Garrison Brown. We extend our deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences to the Brown family at this difficult time,” it read.
Note: If you or any of your loved ones are struggling with suicidal thoughts, you can always reach out to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling 988. They are available 24/7 by phone or online chat.
