Chris and Kristen Howerton are facing an unimaginable loss after the death of their son, Kalob Mason Craig Howerton. On August 5, 2026, after being life flighted to the hospital and spending three days in the ICU on life support, Kalob lost his battle with mental health to suicide at 23 years old.

Kalob was always the happiest kid in the room, always looking for the fun in life, and seeking out his next adventure. He was creative, hardworking, a problem solver, and the kind of person who was always asking how he could help. He loved making people laugh and bringing smiles to people around him. Kalob gave the best hugs — big, strong, and genuine embraces that made his family and friends feel safe and secure. He loved rocks and working with his hands, creating things that were built to last. He put his all into everything he did and his gentle, loving soul will be terribly missed.

Even in his final moments and in the midst of this heartbreaking tragedy, Kalob's legacy of helping others lives on as he gave the gift of organ donation saving three lives. He also gave one final gift of kindness by donating his hair to Locks of Love.

This fundraiser is being organized to help surround Chris and Kristen with support as they grieve and try to carry the weight of the inconceivable loss of their son. Because Kalob had no insurance, Chris and Kristen are now left to pay these overwhelming expenses out of pocket. Bills have already begun flooding in exceeding $70,000. Donations will help cover the medical bills from the emergency room stay, ambulance transport, life flight helicopter, and three-day ICU stay.

Any support helps. Please consider giving if you are able, and please keep Chris, Kristen, Kalob's siblings and family, and everyone who loves Kalob in your thoughts and prayers during this incredibly painful time. Every contribution, no matter the size, will make a meaningful difference for the Howerton family. They send many thanks to all who have donated or even shared this tragedy.

Kalobs family also wanted to share a message to anyone this will reach:

"Not every struggle can be seen. Someone can smile, laugh, work hard, love their family, and appear strong while quietly carrying more than anyone realizes.

So ask. Ask "How are you really doing?". Then stay, listen, love them. Be their rock when life becomes too heavy to carry alone. And if you are struggling, please tell someone. There is no shame in needing help and there is strength in reaching for another person's hand."