“Forever my baby you’ll be.”
“I need him to be remembered for how he lived, not how he died,” Aaron’s mom, Cristy said. Aaron was funny and loving. Like many autistic individuals, he was brilliant in various areas, such as music and history. “Autism really affects social abilities,” Cristy said. “He was just getting used to being around people.”
Aaron had a love for history. His teacher once asked him to teach the class because he could deliver a lesson while keeping the students laughing and interested. He could tell you anything about any flag in the world, even if it was retired, and no longer in use. His musical capabilities were incredible. One day he picked up a guitar to teach himself–three months later, he was effortlessly playing seven different stringed instruments.
Aaron liked being at home surrounded by family. He was an uncle, a grandson, a nephew, and a brother to his older sister, Bethany. He also had a two step-sisters, Angel, and Eagan, two nephews, Charlie, and Colt and two nieces, Evelyn, and Alessa. One Thanksgiving, he asked to forego going away at Thanksgiving, opting to stay home with close family. They had one of the best holiday meals ever, featuring turducken, per Aaron’s request.
Aaron was using drugs for less than a year. He worked at the Amazon warehouse. Eventually, he wanted to work in the medical field like his mom and dad. Cristy said, “I am an Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT).” “I run these calls daily. I never thought my son would die this way. I share his story with others with substance use disorder every day.”
Since Aaron’s death, Cristy misses the random calls she got from Aaron, where he would tell her something completely outrageous. She misses her baby boy, his smile, his laugh, and how his hugs, go unfelt now.
Aaron’s mom, Cristy Johnson, provided the information for this narrative.
November 8, 2003-June 10, 2023-Age 19
Portrait Artist: Jason Irwin
Narrative Writer: Barbara Francois
