The power of music and family shines through in a heartwarming story of love, loss, and remembrance. After the tragic passing of Jared Meyers in March 2024, his wife, Cassidy, sought a unique way to keep his memory alive for their young son, Griffin. Turning to her mother-in-law, Rebecca Funk, Cassidy requested a personalized lullaby that would not only soothe Griffin to sleep but also teach him about the father he lost too soon. Rebecca, with her innate talent for crafting lullabies, responded with a beautiful and deeply personal song that has captured the hearts of millions on TikTok.
A Heartbreaking Loss and a Mother’s Quest for Remembrance
Cassidy and Jared’s love story began in childhood, blossoming into a romance that culminated in marriage in 2019. Their joy was amplified with the arrival of their son, Griffin, in April 2023. However, tragedy struck just a year later when Jared unexpectedly succumbed to hypertensive cardiovascular disease complicated by an undiagnosed congenital heart defect called myocardial bridging. Left to navigate the complexities of grief and single motherhood, Cassidy sought a way to ensure that Jared’s memory would remain a vibrant part of Griffin’s life.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(558×0:560×2)/Meyers-Family-2-121124-939904870fbd43f78ffcf94a75580636.jpg)
Cassidy, Jared, and baby Griffin. Photo Courtesy of Cassidy Meyers.
One evening, while singing Griffin a generic lullaby, inspiration struck Cassidy. She realized the potential of a song specifically crafted to honor Jared and impart his qualities to their son. Turning to her musically gifted mother-in-law, Rebecca, Cassidy shared specific memories and traits that Griffin inherited from his father, requesting that these be incorporated into a custom lullaby set to the familiar tune of “The Ants Go Marching,” Griffin’s favorite melody.
A Lullaby Born of Love and Grief: Rebecca’s Touching Tribute
Within hours, Rebecca delivered a heartfelt lullaby that exceeded Cassidy’s expectations. The song beautifully wove together personal anecdotes, highlighting Jared’s loving nature, strong character, and the enduring connection he shares with Griffin, even in his absence. Cassidy, overwhelmed by the beauty and depth of the lullaby, shared a video of Rebecca singing it to Griffin on TikTok. The video quickly resonated with viewers worldwide, amassing over 1.2 million views and countless expressions of empathy and admiration.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(656×0:658×2)/Cassidy-Jared-Meyers-Rebecca-Funk1121124-5ac48d0986594e709b6397aa0d3e4c84.jpg)
Cassidy and Jared share the news of their pregnancy with Rebecca. Photo Courtesy of Cassidy Meyers.
Lyrics That Speak to the Soul: Keeping Jared’s Memory Alive
The lyrics of the lullaby are a poignant testament to a father’s enduring love. Lines like, “She says that daddy watches me from up above,” and “They say that if I wake with fright, just look to heaven and feel his light,” offer comfort and reassurance to Griffin, reminding him of his father’s presence. The song also celebrates Jared’s legacy, noting Griffin’s similar grin and the promise that he will grow strong like his father. The concluding verse, “Within our hearts, you’re always alive… As long as I live your legacy will never die,” is a powerful declaration of love and remembrance.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(499×0:501×2)/Rebecca-Griffin-121124-81dd8680daff4309935dc779136ba2b4.jpg)
Rebecca Funk holds her grandson, Griffin. Photo Courtesy of Cassidy Meyers.
A Family’s Strength and the Healing Power of Music
Rebecca’s act of creating this lullaby was not only a gift to Griffin but also a cathartic experience for herself, allowing her to honor her son’s memory in a profound way. Cassidy describes Rebecca as an “amazing” mother-in-law, highlighting the unwavering support she has received from her in-laws, especially during this difficult time. The lullaby has become a nightly ritual for Cassidy and Griffin, a tangible connection to Jared, and a reminder that his love continues to surround them. This viral TikTok video serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring bonds of family, the healing power of music, and the importance of cherishing memories. The lullaby, a labor of love born from grief, ensures that Jared Meyers’ legacy will live on in the heart of his son, Griffin, and resonate with countless others touched by this story of loss and enduring love. It exemplifies how, even in the face of profound sadness, beauty and hope can emerge, carried on the wings of a song.
