Endearing, fearless, funny, loving son
Xavier Tobin excelled equally in arts and in athletics. Football, basketball, and working out kept him active. He had a deep love and appreciation for music. Witty and courageous, he showed willpower to achieve anything he set his mind to. He was his mother’s best friend, only child, and her whole world. At eighteen, Krystal’s pride and joy had dreams of having a family of his own, and of a life achieving success as a personal trainer and fitness influencer. Instead, substance use disorder stole away his talent and determination.
Such a short life was studded with incredible moments and endless love. Krystal shares stories of her time with him, including a trip to Missouri for his eighteenth birthday, and getting his first tattoo, a Tree of Life, on his side. To his family friend and grandmother-figure Vina, Xavier was worthy of adoration. Everyone delighted in Xavier’s fitness prowess and the bright plans for his future.
Substance use disorder changed Xavier in his final years. He became angry and quick to snap. Unwilling to recognize the pull substance use had on him, he was reluctant to seek recovery. His family and partner watched as he struggled, worrying intensely as the disease tightened its grasp on him. Though he was willing to help others in need, he himself fought against the same care he gave others, leaving his loved ones devastated when he suddenly succumbed to addiction.
Deep regret and guilt haunt his loved ones. Krystal’s loss is indescribable, as without Xavier, her world is forever shattered. His long-time love Alexa seeks him everywhere she goes, looking for him in every person she meets, though she knows he was “absolutely one of a kind.” In memory of him, she lights a candle on holidays, returns to his favorite basketball courts, and falls asleep to recordings of his voice. Vina remembers the little things they shared, such as teaching Xavier to drive, the games he played with her grandchildren, and how determined he was to have a bright future on his own terms. She writes, “I will always cherish the times we spent together and look forward to seeing you in Heaven.”
Krystal shares her beloved son’s story and photos in as many places and on as many
platforms as possible. Her son’s memory and purpose endure in the inspiration he
provides to others. Helping someone else is the goal, hopefully before it’s too late
to save another soul as bright as Xavier’s.
Xavier’s mother, Krystal Swinehart, provided the information for this narrative.
July 21, 2005-May 5, 2024-Age 18
Portrait Artist: Shawn Faust
Narrative Writer: Jill Denton
