Causes
17-year-old who died in Fall River drowning was a “brilliant, unique soul” and more than just a headline, as online fundraiser created
In a message posted in a GoFundMe fundraiser, the mother of a 17-year-old has shared a tribute to her son, asking the community to remember him as the vibrant, unique young man he was and not simply as a headline.
Rohan Rhys (born Tristan James Major) was found in South Watuppa Pond Sunday night.
His mother described him as a “brilliant, unique soul” who was high-functioning autistic with ADD. He saw the world in black and white, yet worked hard to understand others.
From a young age, he practically taught himself to read and loved building things, from birdhouses to complex robots. He was set to begin the YouthBuild construction program next month and had begun excitedly talking about college, a major milestone given his struggles with traditional schooling.
Rohan loved the outdoors, hiking, exploring, video games, reading, playing guitar, and was even teaching himself Japanese and kanji. Above all, he cherished his family and adored his girlfriend, who brought him great happiness.
His mother stated, “we were all making plans for our future together on a therapeutic horse ranch. Rohan was going to be the one to build and repair things on the property, while he also wanted to have his own vegetable garden.”
In her GoFundMe message, Rohan’s mother described the devastating silence and pain of losing him suddenly: “We will never see his beautiful smile again, or hear the jokes that always brought so much light… The silence he leaves behind is deafening.”
The family is now focused on giving Rohan a dignified farewell. Funds raised through the GoFundMe will support funeral and memorial expenses as well as help the family through this transition.
The mother concluded her tribute by asking for support: “Whether you can donate or not, thank you for helping us honor Rohan Rhys, protecting his memory, and standing with our family.”
17-year-old teen dies in drowning at Fall River’s South Watuppa Pond
