Trent Harmon Mourns Loss of Cousin to Gun Violence

"“Tell those around you that you LOVE them. Hang on to them tight, and support their dreams," wrote Harmon in a tribute to his cousin.

Written by Lauren Laffer
Trent Harmon Mourns Loss of Cousin to Gun Violence
Trent Harmon; Photo by David McClister

The loss of anyone is a horrible thing to experience, but the unexpected and tragic death of a young family member is virtually impossible to fathom. For Trent Harmon, mourning the loss of his cousin will be a tough pill to swallow after learning of her recent passing.

It was Thursday, March 15 when Harmon was told that his cousin Nancy died after being shot. In a note to fans, he explained his loss and how difficult it would be to move forward.

“Dear Friends, We (the band+myself) had the day off today. I was waking up to fix coffee and make my way through the bus quietly without waking anyone,” he wrote. “I had no idea that I would get a phone call only a little while later to find out that Earlier this morning, my cousin was shot and killed. I remember her only a few months ago, coming to a show, happy and cheerful (as usual) telling me how ‘very proud she was of all my accomplishments,’ giving me a BIG HUG, and then making her way out of the venue.”

He continued, “It never occurred to me that that would be the last time I would see her in person. Reality checks have terrible timing, and this one couldn’t be worst. Only 48 hours before her death, she posted on Facebook in support of my recent run of upcoming shows with ‘Rascal Flatts.” I’m sure she would’ve bought a ticket and been in the audience for at least one of the shows.”

In a final message to fans, Harmon pleaded with them to cherish and support their loved ones, as you may never know what tomorrow brings.

“Tell those around you that you LOVE them. Hang on to them tight, and support their dreams. Nancy supported my dreams and I will always be grateful for her cheerful demeanor and kind works.”

Thankfully, Harmon will be surrounded by his road family as he deals with his grief while he tours the country over the next several months.