Country singer Granger Smith says that his youngest son, River Kelly Smith, 3-year-old, has died after a tragic accident.
Both Smith and his wife Amber Smith shared the devastating news on social media on June 6 that “despite doctor’s best efforts, he was unable to be revived.” The family decided to donate his organs to other children.
Smith posted a brokenhearted message to Instagram, calling the news “unthinkable.”
“I have to deliver unthinkable news. 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,” the singer wrote. “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 at this moment. Love the ones close to you. There has never been a more difficult moment for us than this.”
Amber Smith also shared the news, writing on Instagram that “nothing can prepare a mother to deliver this kind of news.”
Smith says that the family was heartbroken, but took solace that River was with God. The family is asking that in lieu of flowers or gifts, donations be sent to Dell Children’s Medical Center in River’s name.
Smith, who is signed to Broken Bow Records, has released songs “If The Boot Fits,” ”Backroad Song” and “Happens Like That.” He and his wife, Amber, also have another son and a daughter.
The Associated Press contributed to this article.
