The tragic loss of Robert Garrison Brown, a vibrant and cherished member of the Brown family, known from the beloved television series “Sister Wives,” has left a deep void in the hearts of his family, friends, and fans across the nation. Just days before his untimely passing, Brown made what would become his final post on Instagram. Robert was the son of Kody Brown and Janelle Brown.

In a sweet moment captured online, he introduced his followers to a new family member, a nine-year-old cat named Ms. Buttons, whom he had rescued from euthanasia. The post featured a tender photograph of Brown holding Ms. Buttons, alongside another image showcasing three cats, including Ms. Buttons, playfully gathered on the floor. His caption humorously admitted to his “savior complex,” a reminder of his compassionate nature. Robert had adopted his two other cats in January and December 2022, respectively.

Sadly, this act of kindness would be among Brown’s final moments shared with the world. On March 5, at the young age of 25, Brown died by suicide, a devastating event confirmed by the Flagstaff Police Department. Officers responded to his home in Flagstaff, AZ, on a report of a death and discovered him deceased from what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound. His brother Gabriel found him.

The news of Brown’s death was met with an outpouring of grief and support from the online community. His Instagram became a memorial space where fans shared condolences and expressed their sorrow. Comments like “RIP Garrison, you had such a beautiful soul,” “25 yrs is too young! You had so much left to live for,” and “Thank you for saving this kitty before you left. Heaven just gained an Angel,” reflect the deep impact of his loss.

One fan even left a comment saying that they had noticed his pain through the family’s famous TV show. The fan said they knew that he needed extra support and that they wished they could have helped him. The commenter wished that all the mothers who had watched the show could have helped the young man. Other commenters asked for the name of the cat rescue that he worked with so they could support them.

Janelle Brown, Robert’s mother, publicly addressed her son’s passing with a heartrending message on social media, accompanied by a photo of him. She wrote, “Kody and I are deeply saddened to announce the loss of our beautiful boy Robert Garrison Brown. 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.”

Robert’s journey on “Sister Wives” showcased a family navigating the complexities of a polygamous lifestyle, with Kody Brown’s multiple wives and a large, blended family. Robert, the fourth child of Kody and Janelle, was featured on the show since its inception in 2010. His life transitioned from Utah to Las Vegas and eventually to Arizona, where he pursued independence, expressed an interest in the armed services, and shared his life and pets with the world through social media.

In the wake of this tragedy, the Brown family, along with their extended community of viewers and followers, mourns the loss of a young man remembered for his spirit, compassion, and the brief but meaningful impact he made on the world. Robert is survived by a loving family and many who considered him a friend and inspiration.

If you or someone you know is considering suicide, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), text “help” to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741, or go to suicidepreventionlifeline.org.

As previously reported on March 6:

Robert Garrison Brown, known affectionately to the public as one of the bright young faces on the hit TLC series “Sister Wives,” has died, leaving a community in mourning and a family grappling with an unimaginable void.

The Flagstaff Police Department, responding to a distressing call on the morning of March 5, 2024, arrived at Robert’s residence to a tragic scene. The 25-year-old, who had established his independence with his own home after moving away from his family, was found deceased.

Lieutenant Charles M. Hernandez II of the Flagstaff Police Department disclosed that Robert’s younger brother, Gabriel, age 22, made the heart-wrenching discovery. The preliminary investigation suggests a self-inflicted gunshot wound, with no indication of foul play. As the Flagstaff PD continues their meticulous investigation, the absence of any apparent foul play leads them to approach this as an apparent suicide.

Robert’s journey on “Sister Wives” commenced in 2010, at the inception of the series. Viewers were introduced to the polygamous family, with Robert’s father, Kody Brown, at the helm, married to multiple wives, including Robert’s mother, Janelle Brown. The show not only captured the dynamics of Kody’s relationships but also highlighted the upbringing and lives of the Brown children, with Robert becoming a familiar, endearing fixture.

The recent years saw changes in the Brown family dynamic, including the divorce of Janelle and Kody in the previous year. Despite the changes, the children’s bond throughout the adversity remained resolute. The children often posted one another on social media, with Robert being no exception.

Robert’s passage into adulthood was marked by a commendable interest in serving his country. Initially aspiring to join the Army, Robert found his calling with the National Guard, a commitment that spoke volumes of his character and his desire to contribute to something greater than himself.

TLC, home to the series that chronicled Robert’s upbringing and his family’s unique lifestyle, released a statement expressing their devastation at the news of Robert’s passing. The network extended their deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences to the Brown family during this extraordinarily painful time.

Janelle shared poignant photos of her son on Instagram during his time of service, her words painting a portrait of a mother’s love and a tribute to a life cut tragically short. “Kody and I are deeply saddened to announce the loss of our beautiful boy Robert Garrison Brown,” her caption read. “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.”

In a solemn acknowledgment of their bereavement, Robert’s family chose his own Instagram platform to communicate the news. A statement read, “Our beloved brother/son Robert (aka Garrison) passed late last night. We appreciate the love and support from all those who have given it.” It concluded with a plea for privacy during their time of profound grief.

If you or someone you know is considering suicide, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), text “help” to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741, or go to suicidepreventionlifeline.org.