GREEN COVE SPRINGS, Fla. — The Green Cove Springs community is mourning the sudden and unexpected passing of Carissa Rae “Cari” Hoyer, 36, a devoted mother of four and sister-in-law of former NFL quarterback Brian Hoyer.
According to a GoFundMe page established by family members, Hoyer passed away last week, leaving behind her husband, Brett Hoyer, and their four young daughters: Josie, 10; Lainey, 9; Ellie, 7; and Hattie, 2. No cause of death has been publicly disclosed.
In an emotional message shared on the fundraising page, Brett’s brothers, Matthew Hoyer and Brian Hoyer, described Cari as a “strong and courageous woman who dearly loved her family” and a tireless, dedicated mother whose life centered on her children.
“Our brother Brett and his four daughters are facing an unimaginable loss,” they wrote. “We cannot take away their pain, but together we can help carry the weight.”
The fundraiser was created to assist with immediate financial needs and to provide long-term stability for Brett as he begins the difficult journey of raising four young daughters on his own. Within days, the campaign raised more than $80,000, reflecting an outpouring of support from friends, neighbors, and well-wishers moved by the family’s story.
In a follow-up message, the Hoyer brothers expressed gratitude for the overwhelming generosity shown to the family. “While nothing can replace Cari’s presence, your generosity is helping lift a burden and provide stability as Brett steps into this new reality of raising four young daughters without their mother,” they wrote.
Cari was remembered as the heart of her household — a woman deeply devoted to her family and committed to nurturing her children with love, strength, and compassion. Friends and supporters have described her as kind, resilient, and wholly dedicated to creating a warm and supportive home.
Brian Hoyer, who went undrafted out of Michigan State in 2009, played 15 seasons in the NFL, including stints with the New England Patriots, Cleveland Browns, and Houston Texans. He threw for more than 10,800 yards and 53 touchdowns during his career and earned a Super Bowl LIII ring with New England as a backup quarterback.
As the Green Cove Springs community continues to rally around the Hoyer family, donations, prayers, and messages of encouragement continue to pour in. For now, the focus remains on supporting Brett and his daughters as they navigate an unimaginable loss and begin the long process of healing together.
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