Devastating Loss: Malia White Opens Up About the Heartbreaking Battle with Addiction that Claimed Her Brother's Life

Malia White Laurent Basset/Bravo

Malia White from Below Deck Med is currently grieving the loss of a loved one in her family. Taking to Instagram on Tuesday, October 10, White shared the unfortunate news of her brother Jay's passing. With a somber tone, she revealed that Jayseph, aged 34, lost his life during the night due to struggles with addiction.

White expressed her gratitude for the time spent with him while acknowledging the devastating loss his death has brought to their family and friends. She emphasized Jay's love for the outdoors, particularly fishing, where he would often be found with his dog Aspen by a riverbank. Jay was remembered as a kind-hearted individual always ready to lend a helping hand. In her social media post, White provided information and support for those struggling with addiction, emphasizing that they are not alone and encouraging them to seek help from friends, family, or addiction treatment professionals.

White's fellow Below Deck costars showed her an overwhelming amount of support. Aleks Taldykin, who was a part of Below Deck Med's first season, expressed his condolences, stating, "Malia, I am truly sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family ️️️."

Courtney Veale expressed her condolences to Malia White, offering support during her difficult time. "Malia, I'm deeply saddened by this news. Sending you and your family lots of love ❤️," replied the former colleague from Below Deck Med.

Fellow Bravo star Amanda Batula also sent a public message, writing, “Sending you so much love and big hugs. So sorry for your loss .”

Malia White and Jay White's image courtesy of Malia White/Instagram.

In 2017, White made her first appearance on Below Deck Med as a member of the deck team. During her time on the show, she found herself entangled in a love triangle with Wesley Walton and Adam Glick. After taking a break from reality TV, White came back to the franchise three years later as a bosun. However, it was her role in Hannah Ferrier's departure that grabbed headlines.

Later this month, White will make her appearance on season 3 of Winter House. She will be joined by Batula, Kyle Cooke, Danielle Olivera, Tom Schwartz, Katie Flood, Alex Propson, Brian Benni, Jordan Emanuel, Kory Keefer, and Casey Craig. Additionally, Bravolebrities Jason Cameron, Sam Feher, Rhylee Gerber, Aesha Scott, and Captain Sandy Yawn will also be making appearances. Previously, White shared her future plans after reality TV with Us.

"I have a strong desire to become a captain, but at the same time, I long for stability and a sense of belonging," she revealed exclusively to We in July 2021. "By roots, I don't mean starting a family, but rather the desire to have a home to return to and establish a life in a specific place. Currently, I find myself drawn to the adventure of traveling and not having concrete plans for the foreseeable future."