UPDATE:

Its been over a month and we were finally able to have Brian cremated, and we're grateful for the support that made that possible.

Unfortunately, we’ve run into complications with Massachusetts probate laws.

Under state law, if the decedent’s assets (excluding one vehicle) are under $25,000, a Voluntary Administration can be filed for a $115 court fee. However, if the assets exceed $25,000—even if it's just temporarily or due to a loan—Formal Probate is required. That comes with a $375 filing fee plus legal fees that typically require a $3,000–$6,000 attorney retainer.

In Brian’s case, although the funds in his account came from a loan that will ultimately go back to the lender, Massachusetts still counts that money as an asset. Because of this, we’re required to go through the much more expensive Formal Probate process.

We now face additional financial hurdles:

》Traveling to lay Brian to rest with his family

》Retrieving his belongings from his landlord

》Covering the legal costs we can’t avoid

We’re doing everything we can, but we are now exhausting our savings and are still short of what we need.

Any donation, no matter the size, would make a meaningful difference. It will help us bring closure, especially for my daughter, who just wants her father to be laid to rest with dignity.

Thank you for your continued support.

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We are heartbroken to share that my daughter, Amber’s father, Brian, passed away unexpectedly this week. His death has left us grieving deeply—and also facing urgent decisions from out of state, including travel, funeral arrangements, and legal responsibilities related to his estate.

This loss comes just as my daughter recently got engaged. What should have been a season of joy is now clouded by sorrow. The realization that he will not be there to walk through this joyful new season, or see her step into this next chapter of life has been devastating for her.

He didn’t leave behind wealth, but he did leave behind love. He was a quiet soul who found joy in simple things—living by the ocean, working on cars, helping those in need, and the moments he shared with those he loved. Though his life wasn’t easy, his presence left a lasting imprint.

We’re doing our best to honor him with dignity and care, but the financial burden is more than we can manage on our own. We’re raising funds to help cover:

Travel and lodging for both my daughter and me to return to Massachusetts

Funeral and burial or cremation expenses

Legal costs to secure and manage what he left behind (documents, access to medical and bank records, etc.)

As her mother, I wish I could shield her from this heartbreak and carry the weight of it all for her. But I also know we’re not meant to walk through grief alone. Your help—whether financial, through prayer, or by simply sharing this page—is a gift of peace in the midst of our sorrow.

Every donation brings us one step closer to laying him to rest and giving my daughter the space to grieve, heal, and move forward. Your kindness may reach us from afar, but its impact will remain close to our hearts forever.

Thank you for your love, compassion, and support during this time.