Miller Gardner, the 14-year-old son of former New York Yankees outfielder Brett Gardner who died in Costa Rica, is remembered as an active, kindhearted student who brought joy to family and friends.
Miller’s legacy was honored in a March 29 obituary published nearly a week after he died on March 21 while on vacation with his family. His death was initially declared to be a result of asphyxiation but was later ruled out and is still under investigation by Costa Rican authorities.
“The void Miller’s passing leaves in the hearts of his family, friends, teammates, teachers, coaches and others will be felt for years,” the obituary reads. “The Gardner family will forever cherish the places they visited, the people they met, the friends they made, and the memories they created together.”
Miller’s obituary notes that he was born Oct. 24, 2010, in Summerville, South Carolina.
Miller is described as an honor roll student and member of his middle school’s football team and junior varsity baseball team. His passions extended beyond the classroom and field to interests in golf, fishing, hunting, riding dirt bikes and traveling with his family.
He is survived by his parents, Brett and Jessica Gardner, and older brother Hunter, grandparents, uncles, four first cousins, and other extended family members “who considered him their own and will miss his smile that brought joy to all.”
The obituary notes that the Gardner family asked for memorial donations to be made in Miller’s name to the Make-A-Wish Foundation in lieu of flowers.
Miller’s life will be honored with a private celebration at a later time.
“They have always been deeply moved by the hope, strength, and inspiration each wish provides for children and families facing difficult times,” the obituary states. “Miller was so blessed with experiences and friendships in his 14 years, and he would want other children to have the opportunity to create their own wonderful memories.”
“Miller’s time here was brief,” the obituary concludes, “but his spirit will carry on forever through those who were impacted by the way he lived.”
The investigative police, the Organismo de Investigación Judicial (Judicial Investigation Department), confirmed that all four members of the Gardner family became sick after dining at a restaurant outside the Manuel Antonio hotel where the family was staying. They were treated with medicine by the hotel’s medical team.
Miller, however, was found with vomit in his mouth and nose when authorities arrived at the hotel. After his body was examined, investigators found no obstruction in his airways.
Soon after the news of Miller’s death broke, the Yankees issued a statement that honored the Gardner family’s long-standing relationship with the team.
“Words feel insignificant and insufficient in trying to describe such an unimaginable loss,” the statement shared on X reads. “It wasn’t just Brett who literally grew up in this organization for more than 17 years — so did his wife, Jessica, and their two boys, Hunter and Miller.”
The Yankees honored Miller with a moment of silence during its Opening Day game at Yankee Stadium.