Our deepest sympathies, thoughts and prayers go out to Granger Smith and his wife Amber as they mourn the loss of their youngest son, River Kelly Smith.
Precious River was just 3-years-old at the time of his unthinkable death.
Smith emotionally shared the news of River’s passing with fans via social media on Thursday.
“I have to deliver unthinkable news,” he wrote. “We’ve lost our youngest son, River Kelly Smith. Following a tragic accident, and despite doctor’s best efforts, he was unable to be revived.”
“Amber and I made the decision to say our last goodbyes and donate his organs so that other children will be given a second chance at life,” he continued in the emotional letter. “Our family is devastated and heartbroken, but we take solace in knowing he is with his Heavenly Father. Riv was special. Everyone that met him knew that immediately. The joy he brought to our lives cannot be expressed and his light will be forever in our hearts. If there are words to say more, I cannot find them in this moment. Love the ones close to you. There has never been a more difficult moment for us than this.”
In lieu of flowers or gifts, the family is asking fans to please send donations to Dell Children’s Medical Center in River’s name.
River Kelly is survived by his father, Granger, mother, Amber, and siblings London and Lincoln.
Update: A rep for Smith told The Tennessean that River drowned at the family’s home.
