Please help us lay BRAIDAN KADE EARL to rest

Help Us Honor Braidan Kade Earl’s Life and Lay Him to Rest

Born: May 23, 1995

Passed: June 18, 2025

Braidan’s Story

Our beloved Braidan Kade Earl passed away unexpectedly at the age of 30. He was found on June 18, 2025, at his group home in Arizona, where he had been living since 2022.

While the cause appears to be a tragic combination of illicit substances, this is only one chapter of a life filled with love, struggle, connection, and resilience.

Braidan was diagnosed in his teens with schizoaffective disorder and mild intellectual disability, after an earlier diagnosis of Oppositional Defiant Disorder as a child. His condition made treatment difficult; some medications caused painful side effects like facial tics and raw, chapped lips. Still, Braidan found ways to engage with the world on his terms.

He had a love for walking and wandering—endlessly curious, he often set off alone, causing worry but always managing to make his way back with help from the people who loved him.

Braidan was raised by a Tribe That Loved Him Fiercely

Braidan’s mother’s side of the family was incredibly close-knit, and from early on, his aunts and uncles recognized that he was a child with unique needs. Rather than retreat from that challenge, they built a tribe of support around him—helping to raise him, showing up when it mattered, and loving him without condition. His extended family stepped in countless times over the years—financially, emotionally, and practically—to make sure he had what he needed.

But perhaps the most beautiful bond he had was with his sisters, brothers and cousins, particularly the group of boy cousins born within a year of him. These boys were his first friends, and that connection never faded. They grew up together, laughed together, and always stayed in touch—keeping tabs on Braidan, reaching out, and checking in, no matter the distance or circumstances. They saw him as he was: family, friend, and equal. That love was unwavering, and it meant everything to him.

Arizona’s system for supporting people with mental illness and developmental disabilities is under-resourced and overstretched. Group homes are often placed in unsafe neighborhoods, with staff turnover and inconsistent supervision. Vulnerable individuals like Braidan can easily be led down dangerous paths, and case managers—though well-intentioned—are often overwhelmed and unable to provide the personalized advocacy their clients need.

Braidan’s story is heartbreaking, but sadly, it’s not uncommon. His death is a stark reminder that more must be done to protect those who cannot fend for themselves.

We are devastated by Braidan’s unexpected passing and want to give him the dignified farewell and burial he deserves. Funeral expenses are overwhelming, and we are humbly asking for help to lay him to rest and celebrate his life.

We are grateful to all of you that are able to donate and share.

Thank you and much love, 

All of Braiden‘s family

“Braidan always had a smile no matter the circumstances and will be missed by all who knew him!” Aunt Debi