Real Housewives Star Mary Cosby Mourns Death of Son Robert at 23

Robert Cosby Jr. is remembered as a "gifted young man" whose "gentle spirit touched everyone" in his obituary.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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Real Housewives of Salt Lake City star Mary Cosby is mourning the death of her 23-year-old son, Robert Cosby Jr. Robert died in Utah on February 23, with authorities responding to a possible overdose. In his obituary, Robert's family described him as a "bright, loving and gifted young man" whose "compassion and gentle spirit touched everyone he met." They detailed his passions for learning, fashion, gaming, and his deep faith.

Why it matters

The death of Mary Cosby's son Robert is a tragic loss for the reality TV star and her family. Robert was remembered as a talented and compassionate young man, and his passing at just 23 years old has understandably been devastating for those who knew him. This story highlights the human side of celebrity and the real pain that can come with losing a loved one, even for public figures.

The details

According to the obituary, Robert attended schools in Utah, Florida, and New York, and was accepted early to Cornell University before returning home to finish high school. He later worked as a mortgage loan officer assistant and founded a skateboard tournament called "Thrasher Fest." The obituary described Robert's passion for style, gaming, and playing the piano, as well as his deep Christian faith. It stated that shortly before his death, Robert had expressed a wish to meet his great-grandmother, the founder of the Faith Temple Pentecostal Churches.

  • Robert Cosby Jr. died on February 23, 2026 in Utah.
  • Two days after his death, on February 25, 2026, Mary Cosby and her husband Robert Cosby Sr. released a statement about their son's passing.
  • On February 28, 2026, Mary Cosby posted an emotional tribute to her son on Instagram.

The players

Mary Cosby

The star of The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City, and the mother of Robert Cosby Jr.

Robert Cosby Jr.

Mary Cosby's 23-year-old son, who passed away in Utah. He was described as a "bright, loving and gifted young man" in his obituary.

Robert Cosby Sr.

Mary Cosby's husband and the father of Robert Cosby Jr.

Dr. Rosemary Redmon Cosby

The great-grandmother of Robert Cosby Jr., and the founder of the Faith Temple Pentecostal Churches.

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What they’re saying

“Our beloved son Robert Jr. has been called home to the Lord. Though our hearts ache, we take comfort in God's promise and in knowing he is finally at peace.”

— Mary Cosby and Robert Cosby Sr., Parents of Robert Cosby Jr. (People.com)

“Beautiful picture Mary. You're an amazing Mom and gave him so much love. May his memory be a blessing 🙏❤️.”

— Kyle Richards (Instagram)

“Such a beautiful photo. Think about you constantly Mary, and I'm praying for you to have strength. You are a strong woman. May he rest in peace🙏🏼.”

— Melissa Gorga (Instagram)

The takeaway

The tragic loss of Mary Cosby's son Robert at just 23 years old serves as a somber reminder of the human side of celebrity and the profound pain that can come with losing a loved one. Robert's obituary painted a picture of a young man full of promise and compassion, whose life was cut short. This story highlights the importance of empathy and support for those grieving, even public figures, as they navigate unimaginable loss.