The family of Kiara Brokenbrough is enduring an unimaginable ordeal. The influencer, who garnered viral fame in 2022 for sharing her budget-friendly wedding on social media, passed away on March 30th, according to her obituary, as she welcomed her first child with husband Joel Brokenbrough. She was just 32 years old.
"Joel and his wife, Kiara Brokenbrough, were married four years ago and were eagerly anticipating their first child in June," read an April 21st GoFundMe page organized by Joel's mother, Shaneka Greene. "They were in the midst of relocating from West Virginia back to California to create a new home for their burgeoning family."
"Unexpectedly," the GoFundMe page continued, "Kiara transitioned to her heavenly home while Baby Jonah entered his earthly one."
The family also shared an update on Kiara and Joel's newborn Jonah. "He is currently in the NICU and has embarked on his long journey to grow stronger and healthier each day," Shaneka explained. "Jonah is a cutie and a fighter, and by God's grace and power, we know he will astound doctors with his daily progress."
Kiara and Joel's 2022 wedding went viral on TikTok after the couple detailed how they managed to throw a wedding for just $500. To keep costs low, Kiara purchased her wedding dress for $47, and guests were asked to purchase their own refreshments at the reception.
"You have a wedding, with witnesses there to witness you, vowing to your spouse and God that you guys are going to stay together for life," Kiara told Good Morning America at the time. "And then you celebrate with food, drinks, and dance. And that's exactly what we did."
Following Kiara's sudden passing, Joel opened up about the weight of his grief.
"I never imagined I would be writing this, especially so soon," Joel wrote on Facebook on April 13th. "It has taken me time to begin processing what has happened and to make sense of it all. My beautiful, God-fearing, worshiping wife has gone home to be in the presence of the Lord."
"Through everything that has happened and continues to unfold, I am leaning on the strength of the Lord," he added. "Despite the pain I carry as her husband, my faith remains firm and unwavering."
