I am raising funds for my brother, Michael James Carney, after his sudden and tragic death. Michael was killed in an accidental flash fire on Tuesday, October 20th in Walker County, Ga. He was 37 years old. The fire happened in a small detached building near the road that was going to be his “tiny home.” Investigators later determined that flammable vapors from spray foam insulation built up in the enclosed space without adequate ventilation and ignited from an unconfirmed heat source.

Michael was doing so well and was actually happy. He had goals, and he was exceeding them. I was so proud of him and so happy for him. He was so excited about his tiny home and about saving money in the long run.

Michael had also been permanently disabled since 2010 after suffering a traumatic brain injury in a motorcycle accident. Even with all he had been through, he was moving forward and building something for himself. Michael refused to let his disability define him. He was hardworking, kind, honest, and caring. He was definitely the fun uncle that always had a little flock of nieces and nephews following him around. He was always really funny too.

I am asking for help with Michael’s final expenses, including his funeral, burial, burial plot, headstone, and other costs that come with laying him to rest. As a single mother living on a very limited income, I cannot manage these expenses on my own. I am not one to ask for help, but I do not know what else to do. Michael’s other siblings are also on very limited incomes.

If you are able to donate, say a prayer, or share this fundraiser, it would mean so much to me and my family. Your support will help us give Michael the funeral and burial he deserves and ease some of the financial burden during this devastating time. God bless.