On June 5, the world was shocked to learn that Kate Spade had died by suicide.
The iconic fashion designer was only 55 years old when she took her own life, and although the public was stunned, nobody was more distraught than her family.
This included her father Earl F. Brosnahan who had talked to his daughter the night before she passed away. Brosnahan was devastated beyond belief as it was said he didn't see any indication that she was in despair. He also advised Spade not to take her prescription drugs.
Sadly, Brosnahan's turmoil was far too great and it was reported he had passed away on June 19, one day before his beloved daughter's funeral.
According to a statement released by the Brosnahan family, the 89-year-old was in "failing health" and was "heartbroken over the recent death of his beloved daughter."
Brosnahan was a U.S. Navy veteran who spent the majority of his life in the Midwest and took over his family's construction business. He leaves behind his wife Sandy Palmer and five children.
However, the next day the funeral still went according to plan at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Redemptorist Church Kansas City, Missouri, where attendees were invited to sing "First Noel." Spade's middle name was Noel and she was born on December 24.
"That song really spoke to the image of who she was. Christmas Eve is a time of lightheartedness and being merry, and that was the way she liked to live her life," said Father Donald P. Farnan, the Catholic priest who officiated the mass.
"We spoke about her dad, how he was always there for his kids, and how maybe Katy needed him most," the priest added.
Spade's husband Andy also spoke highly about his wife during the funeral by recalling their love story and her genuine kindness.
"I believed in her, and she in me. We got through the journey. Two kids moving to the big city," he said.
David Spade also paid his respects and helped others into the church with their umbrellas. The comedian had earlier spoke out on the icon's death on Twitter and said: "I don't think everyone knew how f---ing funny she was... It's a rough world out there people. Try to hang on."
In a tribute to his sister-in-law, the Joe Dirt actor also made a $100,000 donation to the National Alliance on Mental Illness.
"More people suffer from mental health issues than we may realize, but no one should ever feel ashamed to reach out for support," he said of his charity contribution.
If you or a loved one are experiencing suicidal thoughts, remember that you are not alone. Please contact the National Suicide Hotline at 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433).
[H/T: TMZ, New York Daily News]
