Granger Smith Memorializes Late Son With Charity T-Shirt

One-hundred percent of proceeds will benefit Dell Children's Medical Center of Central Texas.

Written by Chris Parton
Granger Smith Memorializes Late Son With Charity T-Shirt
Granger Smith and River, Photo courtesy of Granger Smith; River Smith Tribute T-Shirt, Photo courtesy of YeeYee Apparel

In the wake of unspeakable tragedy, country singer Granger Smith has released a special T-shirt to honor the memory of his 3-year-old son, River, who passed away June 6th in a drowning accident at the family’s home in Texas.

Featuring an excavator with the phrase “Riv” printed on it, 100 percent of proceeds raised by the shirt will be donated to Dell Children’s Medical Center in Austin, according to a description posted to Smith’s Yee Yee Apparel website.

“This shirt has a Yee Yee Excavator on it (Riv’s favorite thing to do was watch excavators scoop up dirt) and is red — Riv’s favorite color,” the post reads.

Smith announced Riv’s passing in a heartbreaking Instagram post a day after the accident, saying that despite doctors’ best efforts, he could not be saved. “Amber and I made the decision to say our last goodbyes and donate his organs so that other children will be given a second chance at life,” Smith shared. “Riv was special. Everyone that met him knew that immediately. The joy he brought to our lives cannot be expressed and his light will be forever in our hearts.”

View this post on Instagram

I have to deliver unthinkable news. We’ve lost our youngest son, River Kelly Smith. Following a tragic accident, and despite doctor’s best efforts, he was unable to be revived. Amber and I made the decision to say our last goodbyes and donate his organs so that other children will be given a second chance at life. Our family is devastated and heartbroken, but we take solace in knowing he is with his Heavenly Father. Riv was special. Everyone that met him knew that immediately. The joy he brought to our lives cannot be expressed and his light will be forever in our hearts. If there are words to say more, I cannot find them in this moment. Love the ones close to you. There has never been a more difficult moment for us than this. . . In lieu of flowers or gifts, please send donations to Dell Children’s Medical Center in River’s name. The doctors, nurses and staff have been incredible.

A post shared by Granger Smith (@grangersmith) on

The couple were married in 2010, and Riv is survived by a brother and sister.