Hi! I’m Laura, Sean’s youngest sister. I’m writing this in honor of my big brother.

 

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Sean Phillips died by suicide in his home in Redding, CA on August 4th, 2021 at the age of 48.

 

Anyone who had the luck of meeting Sean could see how creative, silly, and smart he was. He had a charisma that brightened any room and he could make anyone (anyone!!!!!) laugh.

 

Those who knew him well also knew that he had a long-standing history of alcohol and opioid addiction. While he was dedicated to his sobriety, he suffered some devastating relapses over the years, including one shortly before his death. I don’t think he ever characterized himself as “bipolar,” but he certainly struggled with depression and seemed to have manic episodes as well. He never shared much about that with me, but I suspect the lows took him to depths most of us cannot comprehend. While I’d sacrifice anything to have my brother back, I futilely attempt to soothe myself with the thought that he’s no longer suffering.

 

Sean was a really good person who had a really hard life. He was human, and flawed, like all of us. He hurt a lot of people through his words and actions. He and I were estranged for nearly a decade for that reason. I hope those reading this who haven’t interacted with him recently will be comforted to learn that over the last 4-5 years he worked hard to become a better person. He softened, let go of a lot of anger, and embraced faith in God as a way to find peace.

 

I talked to him the night before he died. He and I were planning a visit for his birthday. It would’ve been my first time seeing him in 10 years. He felt trapped in Redding, and we were discussing him moving to Florida. I was so excited to be a part of this new chapter of his life. He was forward-thinking and, it seemed, excited for the future. That’s one of the many reasons this loss is so shocking. I derive some comfort from knowing the last thing I told him was that I loved him, but now I fear I never said it enough.

 

An unfortunate reality is that Sean’s sudden passing created a huge financial burden / debt for our family. The goal of $4,000 will help cover family travel expenses, relocation of his possessions, cremation/mortuary costs, and a small memorial, which will be held on November 6th in Buena Park, CA (further detail TBD).

 

If you have the means to donate, any amount will help. But if you can’t, thank you for taking the time to read this. Please try to attend his memorial if you can, and please spread the word of the memorial and of his passing, so all those who loved him have the truth and opportunity for closure.

 

For further discussion or questions, you can contact me through GoFundMe or on Facebook.