Auburn Wilson IV, age 27, passed away on February 25, 2022, at Stanford hospital in Palo Alto, California, following open-heart surgery to correct an aortic aneurysm and dissection. This surgery was Auburn's second Open Heart surgery. Auburn had lived with connective tissue disease ACTA 2 gene mutation and kidney disease, but he did not let his medical disability define his life. He was an adorable baby and toddler.

When he was five, he became a big brother to Imani and fulfilled that role most lovingly. Kindness, compassionate, loving, and courage are the descriptors applied throughout his life as he attended school, wrote, and created music.

He didn’t let his many medical struggles interfere with becoming a loyal, fun-loving theater kid whose great passions were gaming, music, and food!

Auburn’s resting place for eternity is in a beautiful forest in Santa Cruz that he chose. Auburn knew that his medical condition would probably take his life sooner than most. He thought about where he would like his ashes to be placed and decided on a beautiful private forest in Santa Cruz, where a tree has been purchased and is by a lovely pond. The quiet, gentle space fits his life and personality.

Unfortunately, the expenses for his final months loom large. His mom has been a dedicated single mom to Auburn and Imani and has been his medical advocate, by his side each time he was hospitalized. This time was no different. That means expenses during the extended time at Stanford for surgery, lodging, and time away from work for two months. We hope to raise $10,000 to ease his mother's burdens and debt related to the expenses for his final two months, the celebration of life, and his cremation and resting place. If you feel moved by our sweet Auburn's story, please donate. All money raised will go to His mom, Rachel Smith, to cover funeral and memorial expenses.

I am Auburn's Aunt. His mom, Rachel Smith, is my sister, and with her mom (Auburn's Grandma, or Noni as we call her), Nora, we are creating this Fund to support Rachel. All money raised will go directly to Rachel.

Thank you for your kindness.