'Sister Wives' Star Garrison Brown Took Out $336K Loan & Joined National Guard — His Life before Death at 25

• Garrison Brown, from "Sister Wives," died at 25, leaving behind a legacy of respect and hidden struggles.
• His significant choices, such as joining the National Guard and buying a home, starkly contrast with his personal challenges.
• Garrison had varied interests, including animal care, travel, and creativity, showing his love for adventure.
• His strong family relationships, marked by love and humor, stood out despite the difficulties of living in the public eye.

The untimely death of Robert "Garrison" Brown, a vibrant and familiar face from the reality TV show "Sister Wives," has cast a shadow over his family, fans, and viewers who have closely followed the Brown family's life.

At just 25 years old, Garrison's life story — from his significant personal milestones, such as his commitment to the National Guard and buying a home, with a substantial loan, to his battle with personal demons leading to his tragic death — paints a complex portrait of a life lived in the public eye, yet shadowed by private struggles.

Garrison Brown's Tragic Passing

Discovery and Response

The unexpected death of Garrison Brown on March 5, 2024, has deeply affected the Brown family, known from the TLC show "Sister Wives."

Garrison was found in his Flagstaff, Arizona home, which he had purchased after moving out during the pandemic.

The Flagstaff Police Department responded to a call at Garrison's residence on Tuesday morning. Upon arrival, officers found him deceased from what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound, pointing to suicide as the cause of death. No signs of foul play were observed, and the investigation into his death is still active.

A Heartwarming Announcement

In the wake of Garrison's death, his family publicly expressed their sorrow and requested privacy during this difficult time. Kody and Janelle Brown, Garrison's parents, shared the same heartfelt message on social media, with Kody's stating:

"Janelle 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."

Kody emphasized the profound impact of Garrison's loss, noting, "His loss will leave such a big hole in our lives that it takes our breath away."

Insights into His Final Days

Further insights into Garrison's final days came to light when Janelle revealed she had been alerted to concerning text messages sent by Garrison.

These messages hinted at his distress, prompting Janelle to ask her other children to check on him. Gabriel, Garrison's brother, was the one who discovered him, marking a tragic end to the young man's life.

Investigation Details

In addition to Garrison's family's statements, the Flagstaff Police Department provided details from their initial investigation. They noted that Garrison's roommates reported hearing a "pop" sound the night before he was found but did not investigate further at the time.

It wasn't until Gabriel arrived and found Garrison with a handgun that the severity of the situation became clear. The roommates also mentioned Garrison's struggles with alcohol, contributing to a complex picture of his mental and emotional state leading up to his death.

His Telling Messages Before Death

Janelle's interaction with the police provided insight into Garrison's state of mind before his death, focusing on the content of his last known communications.

According to the police report, Janelle informed the authorities that Garrison had sent messages that raised concerns about his well-being. These messages, sent to a group of people associated with the Brown family's television show, conveyed feelings of regret and nostalgia.

Garrison's text to the group, as recounted by Janelle to the police, expressed a complicated emotional state: "I want to hate you for sharing the good times. But I can't. I miss these days."

After learning of these messages, Janelle attempted to engage Garrison directly in conversation via text. She managed to briefly communicate with him, but the interaction was short-lived; Garrison soon stopped responding to her messages.

This sudden cessation of communication prompted Janelle to reach out to her other children, asking them to check on Garrison's well-being, leading to Gabriel discovering his brother lifeless in his home.

Garrison’s Life Milestones

Garrison's journey through life was marked by significant personal achievements and decisions that shaped his path. From reaching key age milestones to making substantial life choices such as joining the National Guard and purchasing his own home, Garrison's life was filled with moments that showcased his independence and dedication.

A Milestone Birthday

Garrison celebrated his 25th birthday in April 2023, a notable milestone in his young life. This occasion was one among many that highlighted his journey into adulthood, offering a moment of reflection on his achievements and the challenges he had overcome.

A Home of His Own

In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, Garrison took a significant step toward personal independence by purchasing a house in Arizona.

This move came during a time of increased family tensions and discussions about Garrison needing to find his own living space, separate from the family home.

The decision to buy the $329K house was a considerable financial commitment, highlighted by Garrison's agreement to take out a $336,000 loan.

This loan, which he reportedly planned to repay by January 2052, marked a substantial step in his life, signifying his move towards establishing his own household and independence.

The process of buying a home was not just a financial transaction for Garrison; it represented a new chapter in his life, one that he entered into amid the unique challenges posed by the pandemic and personal family dynamics.

Garrison's Decision to Join the National Guard

Garrison's interest in joining the armed services crystallized into a decision to enlist in the National Guard, a commitment that was shaped by both personal ambitions and family discussions.

His choice to serve was documented in a conversation with his parents, Janelle and Kody, revealed in a "Sister Wives" episode aired on TLC on May 19, 2016.

The Family Conversation

In the episode, Garrison expressed his plan to balance military service with education, stating his intention to attend college while completing recruit training after basic training.

His father voiced concerns about the potential for deployment and the impact it could have on Garrison's education, emphasizing the reality of the National Guard's active role in deployments.

Despite Kody's reservations, Garrison remained committed to his plan, valuing the National Guard's educational benefits and the opportunity to serve his country.

Kody's preference was for Garrison to complete his degree before enlisting, ideally entering the service as an officer. However, Garrison was determined to start his military career sooner, seeing it as a way to integrate his education with his service.

This discussion highlighted a compromise between Garrison's desires and his parents' hopes, with Garrison prioritizing the immediate start of his military career.

Enlistment and Service

Garrison's commitment to joining the National Guard was actualized when he enlisted in the Nevada Army National Guard, completing his boot camp in Georgia. This was shared by Janelle on Instagram on October 26, 2016, where she expressed pride in her son's decision.

Garrison's enlistment marked the beginning of his journey in the armed services, a path he chose with an understanding of the responsibilities and risks involved, including the potential for deployment.

Garrison's choice to join the National Guard, despite his family's concerns, underscored his dedication to serving his country while also pursuing educational opportunities offered through military service.

Family Dynamics

The relationship between Garrison Brown and his father faced considerable challenges, particularly highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Kody's stringent approach to pandemic safety measures and his expectations for his family's compliance led to significant friction, especially with his sons Garrison and Gabriel.

Kody's Candid Admission

The arguments were mainly about social distancing and how the pandemic affected family time, leading to increased distance between Kody and his sons. On "Sister Wives," Kody mentioned he was upset about not talking much with Gabriel and Garrison lately.

He reminisced about the close relationship they once shared, emphasizing the void that their current estrangement had created.

Kody's reflections highlighted a deep sense of loss and a longing for reconciliation, despite the ongoing disagreements and differing perspectives on handling the pandemic.

Concern for Garrison

Janelle also voiced her concerns over the impact of the family's dynamics on her sons' mental health. In an emotional statement, she described how the tension and disagreements had affected Garrison, noting a change in his demeanor from being happy-go-lucky to appearing more withdrawn and affected by the situation.

A Suggestion Janelle Rejected

The family's struggle with adhering to COVID-19 precautions and maintaining their close-knit relationships was further illustrated in an episode of "Sister Wives," where Kody's attempts to enforce strict guidelines led to significant discord.

His insistence on social distancing measures, including a controversial suggestion that Garrison and Gabriel move out to facilitate safer family interactions, was met with resistance from Janelle.

She advocated for her sons' need to maintain their social connections and personal happiness, challenging Kody's stance and highlighting the deep divides within the family over how to navigate the pandemic together.

These dynamics were further strained during the holidays, with Kody proposing that if Garrison and Gabriel wished to continue their social activities, they should consider moving out.

Personal Life and Interests

Garrison's life outside of "Sister Wives" was rich with hobbies, passions, and meaningful engagements that showcased his multifaceted personality.

From his love for cats — highlighted by his final post before his death — and knack for renovation projects to his creative talents and social life, Garrison's interests painted a picture of a vibrant and engaged individual.

Animal Lover

In his final social media update before his passing, Garrison's affection for cats was evident as he revealed his efforts to provide a home for three felines, including Ms. Buttons, a cat he saved from euthanasia.

His social media posts about his cats, including one humorously considered to be named "Catthew," highlighted his caring nature and commitment to animal welfare.

Renovation Projects

Garrison's interest in hands-on projects was also evident in his purchase and renovation of an old camper trailer. Documented by Janelle on Instagram, this undertaking highlighted Garrison's ability to transform and repurpose, working alongside his brother Gabriel.

The project not only showcased his practical skills but also his capacity to envision and execute complex renovation tasks.

Skills and Contributions

Garrison's talents extended to carpentry, a skill praised by his mother Janelle in a post showcasing a table he was building.

This ability linked him to a family lineage of carpenters, suggesting an inherited talent that Garrison embraced and developed.

Beyond his craftsmanship, Garrison also contributed to family life through cooking, stepping in to make dinner during busy family days, as noted in another of Janelle's posts.

Love for Travel and Adventure

Travel was another passion of Garrison's, with his social media posts capturing hikes and visits to places like Mont Saint-Michel in France, Valencia, and Pompeii, and enjoying the music in Coachella.

These travels reflected his adventurous spirit and curiosity about the world, further emphasized by his light-hearted consideration of adding the “✈️” emoji to his bio after a trip.

Entrepreneurial Ventures

Garrison's creativity and entrepreneurial spirit were showcased through his brand of floral shirts, Bob's Floral Hawaiian Shirts.

His promotion of the brand on Instagram demonstrated his knack for business and marketing, along with a personal style that embraced bold and vibrant designs.

Social Life and Family Time

Garrison's social life, including moments with friends and potential romantic interests, was part of his Instagram narrative. Yet, it was his time with family that truly highlighted his values.

From attending his sister Savannah’s graduation to celebrating Thanksgiving with the family, his presence at family events underscored the importance of these relationships in his life.

His humorous and caring interactions, whether through playful posts for Mother’s Day or replicating a childhood photo with his father, Kody, on the latter's birthday, illustrated the bonds that he cherished.

New Career Opportunities

Before his death, Garrison had embarked on a new chapter in his professional life with a job at a medical facility. This move into the healthcare sector marked another step in Garrison's journey of personal and professional growth.

Garrison's personal life and interests reveal a man of diverse talents and deep passions. From his compassionate care for animals and engagement in creative projects to his love for travel and dedication to family, his life was a testament to his multifaceted personality and enduring impact on those around him.

Garrison Brown's death at 25 has deeply impacted his family, friends, and the viewers of "Sister Wives." Known for his service in the National Guard, love for animals, entrepreneurial spirit, and his role in his family, his sudden passing underscores a significant loss.

His departure has sparked discussions on mental health, highlighting the need for support and awareness in addressing the struggles faced by individuals, especially those in the public eye.

The reflections shared by his family and the details emerging from investigations into his death emphasize the importance of understanding and compassion in mental health matters.

As the Brown family mourns Garrison, his life serves as a reminder of the complexities behind public figures and the critical need for dialogue and support around mental health issues.

In honoring Garrison Brown, it's essential to recognize the impact of his life and the conversations about mental health awareness his passing has prompted. His legacy, marked by his passions and contributions, calls for a continued effort to support those in need and to cherish the connections with loved ones.

'Sister Wives' Janelle Brown, 54, Disclosed Skin Cancer Scare a Day before Son Died at 25

Janelle Brown, "Sister Wives" star and one of Kody Brown's many wives, has recently been through a whirlwind of emotions. Besides mourning her son, Garrison Brown's, tragic passing, Janelle faced her own health challenges and opened up about it only a day before Garrison's death.

The matriarch bravely discussed her skin cancer scare and treatment, sharing her story on Instagram in a bid to raise awareness and encourage others to take their health seriously.

In her post, she disclosed her battle with basal cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer she had removed shortly after the COVID-19 pandemic began.

She has since established a routine of undergoing an annual head-to-toe check, which recently led to a recent discovery and procedure. "Today I had 2 pre-cancerous spots frozen and a tiny lump removed from my lip," she said a day before her son died.

Despite the inconvenience and slight discomfort of these medical appointments, Janelle emphasized their importance, stating, "2 pre-cancerous spots stopped in their tracks. Worth it." She also shared a picture of the discoloration on her inner lip where the lump was once in place.

In her post, Janelle didn't just share her personal ordeal; she also seized the opportunity to urge her followers to remain proactive about their skin health, highlighting the importance of regular checks and vigilance, even with preventative measures like sunscreen in place.

In 2021, she also shared about the non-malignant basal cell carcinoma on her face, which she openly discussed on Instagram. Sharing a photo and her journey, she wrote, "I started to see what looked like a scar develop in an area on my lip where all of my cold sores for the past two decades have erupted."

She initially thought it was nothing but a new cold sore forming, but the scar never developed into anything more. Over the following year, it began to grow. Janelle used different scar medications to treat it to no avail.

When she finally had it checked, doctors discovered that it was a non-malignant basal cell carcinoma that needed to be removed. Fortunately, it was successfully taken out.

Janelle further underscored the relentless necessity of protection against sun exposure in her post. "This place on my face just looked like scar tissue and because I had cold sores there since my early 20s - it honestly did not occur to me to have it even looked at," she wrote.

Her proactive approach and timely medical intervention allowed for early detection and treatment of her condition, for which she expressed gratitude.

Throughout these health scares and life's everyday hurdles, Janelle has consistently found support in her son, Garrison. Before his passing, Garrison was a pillar of strength for his mother, assisting her with practical tasks like hauling trailers and organizing belongings.

In 2023, Janelle shared her appreciation for Garrison's help through an Instagram tribute that included pictures of her son. "Im so grateful for my kids and bonus kids," she wrote.

A year before helping his mom with her belongings, Garrison also did his own fixing as he packed up his things and moved out of their family home. Garrison Brown made 2022 the year of independence as he secured a residence merely a twenty-minute drive from his father, Kody Brown's, home, notably valued at $890,000.

Garrison's new dwelling was modest yet inviting, spanning two floors with four bedrooms and two bathrooms, perfectly catering to his needs. Flooded with natural light, the 1,441-square-foot property featured fresh wood flooring and a welcoming fireplace on the first floor.

Additionally, the home included a small fenced-in courtyard and backyard, providing a serene outdoor space for relaxation and enjoyment. Records revealed that Garrison had taken out a $336K loan to finance his new Arizona home. He had agreed to repay the loan in full by January of 2052, embarking on the journey of homeownership at a relatively young age.

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