The wife of the late pastor Jarrid Wilson has penned yet another heart-wrenching post following the sudden death of her husband.
The 30-year-old mental health advocate passed away from suicide last week after suffering from depression for a number of years.
In her latest post, Juli Wilson marked what would have been Jarrid’s 31st birthday by celebrating what he accomplished for God’s kingdom and lamenting the fact he is no longer with her and their two young boys.
“Today, you would’ve been 31,” she wrote. “You lived more in those years than most could in 100. I’m blown away by all God did in and through your life!”
Juli explained how the couple had “planned to go to a cabin with friends” this weekend to celebrate the occasion. “We planned on burritos and your favorite funfetti cake. And of course, we planned on lots and lots of fishing,” she added.
“I can’t help but think of everything we could be doing together today, how we should be celebrating all the wonderful things that made you, you…but I am so thankful that through Christ, I am not limited to an earthly perspective.”
Wilson went on to declare that her husband, who died on the eve of National Suicide Prevention Day, is now doing what he was “CREATED to do.”
“You are worshiping the king of kings face-to-face. You are complete and whole, not lacking a thing. How could I not find peace in that?” she wrote.
“Our hearts are broken here,” she added. “We miss you beyond what words can convey. The pain is so deep, raw and surreal, but we hold on to hope as an anchor for our souls. It is firm and secure. We WILL see you again. I love you, jare.”
Support has been pouring in for Juli and her two young sons after news broke of Jarrid’s death. So far, over $100,000 has been raised for the family via a GoFundMe campaign.
Elsewhere, Jarrid’s friends have been coming up with creative ways of helping continue his legacy of mental health awareness.
Cause Coffee, a charitable coffee company which was partially founded by Jarrid himself has released a special blend called “HOPE.” The proceeds taken from the sale of this special edition product will go towards the Wilson’s non-profit, “Anthem of Hope,” which supports those going through mental illness.
“As a tribute to a dear friend and amazing human-being, we are releasing a limited time blend called HOPE (available on our website),” Cause wrote on Instagram. “All proceeds from the HOPE Blend will go directly to @anthemofhope to help continue Jarrid’s work and legacy.”
Via its website, Anthem of Hope provides resources and support including a directory of psychologists and counselors in your local area and a feature called “Hope Chat” — a live chat service that connects people suffering from mental health issues with a “trained HopeCoach.”
“Our chat is open 24/7 and it’s safe, private, and free,” the website notes. “Sharing your pain is the first step in finding help. We believe in you, and we’re here to help you any way we can.”
Many took to social media to write kind words about Jarrid on this bittersweet day — indeed, clicking on Wilson’s still-active Twitter profile, you’re immediately met with a shower of balloons to mark the occasion.
Though painfully sad that he is not with us, many pointed out that he is now at peace in heaven:
Do continue to keep the Wilson family in your prayers at this devastating time.