Brett Gardner played for the New York Yankees his entire 14-year career before retiring in 2021. He and his wife, Jessica Gardner, married in 2007 and welcomed two sons. Tragically, the pair’s 14-year-old son, Miller Gardner, passed away suddenly while the family vacationed. Together with his wife, Brett Gardner issued a statement about Miller’s death via the New York Yankees. According to the family, Miller and several other family members fell ill while on vacation in Costa Rica, but they still have few answers about what happened to their son.
Videos by InspireMore
“Miller was a beloved son and brother, and we cannot yet comprehend our life without his infectious smile. He loved football, baseball, golf, hunting, fishing, his family, and his friends. He lived life to the fullest every single day,” the family’s statement read.
Statement from Brett and Jessica Gardner:
— New York Yankees (@Yankees) March 23, 2025
With heavy hearts we are saddened to announce the passing of our youngest son, Miller. He was 14 years old and has left us far too soon after falling ill along with several other family members while on vacation. We have so many… pic.twitter.com/lBCBVmKGUe
Many New York Yankees Fans Shared Love With Brett Gardner And His Family Following The Death Of Their Son
The former New York Yankees player asked for privacy to grieve his son’s death, but extended gratitude writing, “We are so thankful to all who have reached out to offer support and encouragement during this difficult time and we are confident our faith, family, and friends will help us navigate this unimaginable loss. Our prayers go out to Miller’s teammates and friends, as well as to all other families who have lost a child far too soon as we share their grief.”
A fan prayed, “The only thing I can offer is my prayers that God will sustain your hope and love for each other and that He will wrap you in His love and care.”
This person shared similar grief: “We just lost our 11-year-old granddaughter a few weeks ago. It’s an awful experience, and this family will need continued prayers and support.”
A fan asked social media users to be kind to the former New York Yankees player as he comes to grips with his son’s death. “Please pray for this family. At this time, they don’t need questions or assumptions in comments. They need respect. Allow them to grieve. They will get answers in time. As a parent that lost their ONLY child, they deserve time to heal!!”
This story’s featured image is by Shutterstock AI.
Want to be happier in just 5 minutes a day? Sign up for Morning Smile and join over 455,000+ people who start each day with good news.