For the first time since his 3-year-old son River’s tragic death, country singer Granger Smith performed live. Sadly, on June 6, Granger and his wife Amber revealed the sad news of his passing on social media.
https://www.instagram.com/p/ByYJF-0JHaq/
They wrote, “I have to deliver unthinkable news,” Granger wrote. “We’ve lost our youngest son, River Kelly Smith. Following a tragic accident, and despite the 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.”
“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.”
Granger and his wife also recorded a video for fans in which they thanked fans, first responders, their community and friends for their support and love. The couple also openly talked about how they plan to preserve River’s legacy.
“We are going to search for every bit of good that we can find in this situation…the worst situation we’ve ever been through. We’re going to constantly search for ways that good will come out of this. That is my commitment to River’s legacy,” Granger said.
Another way Granger is honoring River is with a large tattoo on his arm that he debuted on Sunday (June 23) during his set at Lake Shake Festival.
Smith returned to the stage for the first time since his son’s death with a tattoo that said, “River” on his forearm.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BzGa5cVgTKI/?fbclid=IwAR1ICZsia4fN97X5_OSaZ1c4FdI3-N0wRDCOZYQAKF4oUo0LxlL0_EiqvmI
Smith has said going on tour will help him, and his entire family, heal.
“I’m going to bring them with me,” he said of his family, adding that he won’t be doing media or meet and greets, but just be out on the road looking for inspiration with his loved ones. “Music has always been healing [for me]. That’s the place I’ve always turned to.”
We will keep the Smith family in our prayers.
Take another look at some photos showing off his tattoo below.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BzGyPGRgRug/?fbclid=IwAR04Pt3YSuhuqbAHYUXoazkzsFgZjhjWDKiz2M1XuAnlstnzJmWcBcN42XI