The family of 14-year-old Miller Gardner, who died suddenly earlier this month, will honor his legacy through an organization close to the family’s hearts.
In an obituary published in Charleston, South Carolina’s Post and Courier on Saturday, March 29, the former New York Yankees star Brett Gardner and his family requested memorial donations be made to the Make-a-Wish Foundation, a non-profit helping fulfill wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions.
“The Gardners have seen the organization’s impact firsthand on numerous occasions and have always been deeply moved by the hope, strength, and inspiration each wish provides for children and families facing difficult times,” the obituary read. “In this time of unimaginable loss, the family prays that joy and healing will come to others who share their grief.”
The family added, “Miller’s time here with them was brief but his spirit will carry on forever through those who were impacted by the way he lived. Miller was so blessed with experiences and friendships in his 14 years, and he would want other children to have the opportunity to create their own wonderful memories.”
Per her obituary, Miller was “a member of the middle school football team and junior varsity baseball team, as well as the school Honor Roll.”
“Outside of school, his hobbies included golf, fishing, hunting, riding dirt bikes, and traveling to new places with his family,” the obituary continued. “Miller is survived by his loving parents and older brother, Hunter, all of Summerville, South Carolina.”
Miller’s parents, Brett and Jessica, and his brother were all vacationing with him in Costa Rica when he was found dead in his hotel room on March 21. Brett is a former outfielder for the New York Yankees, playing all 14 years of his MLB career with the storied franchise.
“The void Miller’s passing leaves in the hearts of his family, friends, teammates, teachers, coaches and others will be felt for years,” the obituary read. “The Gardner family will forever cherish the places they visited, the people they met, the friends they made, and the memories they created together.”
A private celebration of life will be held for family and friends at a later date.
Related: Hotel Owner Says Miller Gardner’s Death Has Led to ‘Huge‘ Cancellations
A hotel owner from the same tourist region where 14-year-old Miller Gardner was found dead explained how her business has already been impacted in the tragic aftermath. Lamia Funti, who owns Casa Lamia Restaurant & Lodge in Costa Rica’s Manuel Antonio region, exclusively told Us Weekly how attitudes have shifted since Miller, the son of […]
Us Weekly exclusively reported on Sunday, March 30 that Miller’s body had been released by Costa Rican authorities. Autopsy and toxicology reports are not expected to be released for months.
Miller was found dead in his hotel room at the Arenas Del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort in the tourist region of Manuel Antonio on March 21.
The night prior, Miller and his entire family became severely ill after eating at a restaurant off the resort’s premises. All family members were administered medication by a doctor upon their return.
A cause of death for Miller has not been announced.
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