Help Sonny and Jaxson Navigate Life Without Melissa

In Loving Memory of Melissa “Ryan” Howell Brazeale

Supporting Her Husband Sonny and Son Jaxson

On May 10th, 2025, the world lost a light that can never be replaced. Melissa “Ryan” Howell Brazeale, a devoted wife, loving mother, loyal friend, and fierce protector, passed away suddenly after a tragic cardiac event. She was just 41 years old. In every chapter of her life, Melissa “Ryan” Howell Brazeale led with love, compassion, and courage.

She was the heartbeat of her home and the steady hand for so many of us. Whether you knew her as a sister, friend, or simply as someone who always showed up with a smile and an open heart, you know that Melissa “Ryan” Howell Brazeale made this world a better place.

She gave all she had in life—and even in death, she gave more. Through her final act of love, Melissa “Ryan” Howell Brazeale became a hero by donating her organs to save the lives of others. Her legacy of selflessness lives on in those who now have a second chance because of her.

Today, we ask for your help in honoring that legacy. While funeral arrangements are being lovingly handled by family, we are launching this GoFundMe to support her husband Sonny and her 11-year-old son Jaxson as they navigate this heartbreaking loss.

The donations raised will go toward:

Rent and essential utilities

Groceries and household needs

Unpaid medical bills

Support and stability for Jaxson’s future

Sonny and Jaxson have lost the heart of their home. We cannot take away their grief—but we can ease the burden of what comes next. Every dollar given will help carry this family through the unimaginable, just as Melissa “Ryan” Howell Brazeale would have done for any of us.

If you are unable to give, please share this fundraiser with others. The more people who see her story, the more love and support we can pour into Sonny and Jaxson’s lives.

Let’s stand together as a community—because that’s exactly what Melissa “Ryan” Howell Brazeale would have done for us. Always.

With gratitude and love,

Tiffany, Brandy, Nikki, Stephanie, and Sam "Jaxson's - Tribe of Aunts"