Former New York Yankees athlete Brett Gardner and his wife, Jessica Gardner, are mourning the death of their 14-year-old son.
“With heavy hearts, we are saddened to announce the passing of our youngest son, Miller. He was 14 years old and has left us far too soon after falling ill along with several other family members while on vacation,” Brett, 41, and Jessica wrote in a Sunday, March 23, statement released by the Yankees. “We have so many questions and so few answers at this point, but we do know that he passed away peacefully in his sleep on the morning of Friday, March 21st.”
Brett, who retired from the MLB team in 2021, and Jessica have been married since 2007. In addition to Miller, they share eldest son Hunter.
“Miller was a beloved son and brother and we cannot yet comprehend our life without his infectious smile,” the couple’s statement added. “He loved football, baseball, golf, hunting, fishing, his family and his friends. He lived life to the fullest every single day.”
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They continued, “We are so thankful to all who have reached out to offer support and encouragement during this difficult time and we are confident our faith, family, and friends will help us navigate this unimaginable loss. Our prayers go out to Miller’s teammates and friends, as well as to all other families who have lost a child far too soon as we share their grief.”
Brett and Jessica also asked followers to “respect our wishes for privacy as we mourn and search for healing,” but have not yet revealed a cause of death or disclosed the nature of Miller’s illness.
The Yankees organization later released its own statement addressing Miller’s sudden death.
“Our hearts are heavy, and the Yankees family is filled with grief after learning of the passing of Miller Gardner,” the message read. “Words feel insignificant and insufficient in trying to describe such an unimaginable loss. It wasn’t just Brett who literally grew up in this organization for more than 17 years — so did his wife, Jessica, and their two boys.”
The Yankees statement further remembered Miller for the “spark in his eyes,” as well as
an outgoing and feisty personality” and a “warm and loving nature.”
“Our love for the Gardner family is unconditional and absolute, and we will offer our enduring support while understanding their desire for privacy,” the statement concluded. “May Miller rest in peace.”
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