Funeral arrangements to be announced for Kentucky boy subject of near week-long search

His loved ones are left picking up the pieces, facing the harsh reality that his mother has been charged in connection with his untimely death.

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“It’s a nightmare,” said one of Jayden’s aunts, Samantha Brunty. “I just feel like I can’t wake up from it. Doesn’t seem real.”

“We spent hours up until two or 3:00 in the morning out looking for Jayden,” said Chy Salyers, another one of Jayden’s aunts. “We were very dedicated. And to know that she knew where he was—we can’t stomach it.”

Community members are coming together to support his family and friends as they prepare for a funeral. According to an obituary, exact details are still pending.

Josh Turner, a Jackson resident, previously organized a GoFundMe to raise money for a reward in hopes of bringing Jayden home safe. Instead, he’s working toward funding Jayden’s funeral. A Lexington priest, Father Jim Sichko, also offered to pitch in and is working with Turner to ease the family’s burden.

Jayden’s arrangements are being handled by Breathitt Funeral Home.

Jayden Spicer, age 10, of Canoe, Kentucky, passed away Tuesday, August 12, 2025. He was born October 4, 2014 at Hazard Appalachian Regional Hospital.

Jayden was a bright and energetic student at Highland Turner Elementary School in Breathitt County, preparing to enter the fourth grade. He loved life with a joyful spirit that touched everyone around him. Jayden enjoyed playing Fortnite and Roblox, was a big fan of Spider-Man, and spent countless hours playing outside—throwing rocks, riding the four-wheeler, jumping on the trampoline, and playing soccer, basketball, and baseball.

He is survived by his aunts, Samantha Brunty and Chy Salyers; uncle, Michael Hays; sisters, Mia Spicer and Aliyha Spicer; brothers, Hunter Gross, River Gross, and Fisher Gross; and a “like-a-grandmother,” Linda Salyers. He also leaves behind a host of cousins and many dear friends who will miss him deeply.

Jayden was preceded in death by his grandmother, Shirley Faye Johnson, who lovingly raised him until her passing in May of this year.

Jayden’s playful laughter, kind heart, and adventurous nature will remain in the hearts of all who knew him. Though his time here was far too short, the love he shared will last forever.

Funeral date and time will be posted as soon as available.
Breathitt Funeral Home

A candlelight vigil will be held at 8:30 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 16, at Douthitt Park in Jackson.