Mary Cosby is speaking publicly following the death of her son, Robert Cosby Jr.
In a statement shared with TMZ on February 25, the Real Housewives of Salt Lake City cast member addressed the loss directly, writing, “Our beloved son Robert Jr. has been called home to the Lord.”
She continued, “Though our hearts ache, we take comfort in God’s promise and in knowing he is finally at peace. We are grateful for your prayers and trust in the Lord to carry us through this time of sorrow.”
Robert Cosby Jr. was 23.
Authorities in Salt Lake City responded on February 23 to what was initially reported as a medical emergency involving a young adult male. According to officials, the call was later treated as a death investigation.
Early details indicate police were responding to a possible overdose, though the official cause of death has not yet been confirmed. The medical examiner’s office is continuing its review.
The news came shortly after Cosby Jr. had been released from custody earlier in the month, following approximately two months in jail. His attorney, Clayton Simms, previously said that time allowed him “to sober up and start thinking clearly,” adding that he was focused on moving forward after recognizing the end of his marriage.
In December, Cosby Jr. resolved part of an ongoing legal case by pleading guilty to multiple charges, including assault and violating a pretrial protective order connected to his estranged wife, Alexiana Smokoff. Several other misdemeanor charges were dismissed as part of the agreement.
The legal issues followed a series of incidents that began in September, when Cosby Jr. was arrested in connection with domestic-related allegations. Court records outlined repeated violations of protective orders, with prosecutors alleging continued contact and reentry into restricted locations despite clear court directives.
His personal struggles had also been visible on Real Housewives of Salt Lake City. During recent seasons, Mary Cosby spoke about concerns surrounding her son’s well-being, including his substance use and efforts toward sobriety.
At the show’s reunion last month, she said she believed he was in a place where he was not actively using, while also acknowledging the challenges he faced in taking responsibility for his decisions.
Cosby Jr. had also appeared on the series in earlier seasons, including a storyline in which Mary Cosby revealed he had gotten married without initially telling her. The couple wed in 2022 and later separated.
Mary Cosby has not shared additional details beyond her initial statement.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, support is available through the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or thehotline.org.
For substance abuse or mental health support, contact the SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) for free, confidential assistance available 24/7.