Community holds benefit concert to help neighbor deal with tragic loss
Jun 25, 2025, 4:00 PM
PAYSON — Dozens of folks came out to The Suiter Family Benefit Concert Tuesday, at the Peteetneet Amphitheater, in Payson.
It’s the first time Jenn Suiter spoke with the media after experiencing a string of tragic losses. Suiter said the community’s love and support, along with heaven’s help, have made all the difference during this incredibly difficult time.
“I feel like not only am I being carried by heaven, but I’m also being carried by angels on Earth. And it is making me feel like I can do this,” Suiter said.
Carrying on after the tragic loss of her son, who died by suicide, and her husband, only days later, from a fatal, head-on collision, on May 27, near milepost 250, on Interstate 15.
Carrying on after the tragic loss of her son, who died by suicide, and her husband, only days later, from a fatal, head-on collision, on May 27, near milepost 250, on Interstate 15.
“It’s just been a lot of tears. It’s been a lot of love. And to feel sadness and love at the same time has been so amazing,” Suiter said.
Jenn Suiter is carrying on after the tragic loss of her son, who died by suicide, and her husband, only days later, from a fatal, head-on collision on May 27 on Interstate 15. (Jenn Suiter)
Benefit concert organized by American Idol contestant
That love was revealed at a community benefit concert. From vendors, food trucks, bounce houses, and music, the community came out to support the Suiters.
Event organizer Katie Higley is a two-time American Idol contestant. Now she harmonizes for hope with the musical group, Firefly. They’ve opened for the likes of Carrie Underwood and The Chicks.
“And this is an opportunity for the whole community to come out and to show her and her family, and to lift them up during this time of grief and deep loss,” Higley said. “It’s unimaginable.”
Event organizer and two-time American Idol contestant Katie Higley performed with her group Firefly at the Suiter Family Benefit Concert on Tuesday, June 24, 2025. (Nathaniel Gillis, KSL TV)
Yet, amid tragedy, Jenn Suiter is focused on healing. Not just for her family, but the entire community.
“Mourn with those that mourn,” Suiter said. “Everybody is going through something in their life. Everybody has had a death that they’ve experienced; and if you can go and mourn with someone who has already experienced that, then the community comes together, and that’s where healing really begins.”
She said part of healing is talking with others during difficult times of grief. Suiter added that people often keep their feelings to themselves because they don’t want to burden others.
She believes that may have been a factor in her son’s suicide. She stressed the importance of reaching out and connecting with others.
If you weren’t able to get to the benefit concert, you can still support the family or donate to their GoFundMe*.
*KSLNewsRadio does not assure that the money deposited to the account will be applied for the benefit of the persons named as beneficiaries. If you are considering a deposit to the account, you should consult your own advisors and otherwise proceed at your own risk.
Suicide prevention resources
If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or exhibiting warning signs, call, text, or chat the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 which is answered 24/7/365 by crisis counselors at the Huntsman Mental Health Institute. All calls to legacy crisis hotlines, including the old National Suicide Prevention hotline, 1-800-273-8255, will also connect to a crisis care worker at the Huntsman Mental Health Institute as well.
Additional resources
- SafeUT: Parents, students, and educators can connect with a licensed crisis counselor through chat by downloading the SafeUT app or by calling 833-3SAFEUT (833-372-3388)
- SafeUT Frontline: First responders, including firefighters, law enforcement, EMS, and healthcare professionals can chat with a licensed crisis counselor at no cost 24/7/365 by downloading the SafeUT Frontline app.
- SafeUTNG: Members of the National Guard can chat with a licensed crisis counselor at no cost 24/7/365 by downloading the SafeUTNG app.
- Utah Warm Line: For non-crisis situations, when you need a listening ear as you heal and recover from a personal struggle, call 1-833 SPEAKUT 8:00 a.m.-11:00 p.m., 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
- The Huntsman Mental Health Institute offers a wide variety of programs and services including suicide prevention and crisis services, hospital treatment, therapy & medication management, substance Use & addiction recovery, child & teen programs, and maternal mental health services including birth trauma, pregnancy loss, infertility, and perinatal mood and anxiety disorders.
