Tawnee Brianne Thurber Obituary: Celebrating the Life of a Devoted Mesa, AZ Personal Trainer and Behavioral Health Specialist, GoFundMe
Tawnee Brianne Thurber Cause of Death, Mesa, Arizona – April 6, 2025 — With profound sadness and heavy hearts, the family, friends, and clients of Tawnee Brianne Thurber announce her untimely passing. Tawnee, a beloved certified personal trainer, behavioral health specialist, and devoted mother, tragically passed away by suicide on March 2, 2025, in her hometown of Mesa, Arizona. She was a radiant soul who touched countless lives with her compassion, authenticity, and unwavering commitment to helping others achieve physical and emotional well-being.
Tawnee was a remarkable woman whose presence could light up any room. She balanced her professional career with extraordinary personal strength, and though she battled internal struggles, she never allowed them to dim the light she so generously shared with the world.
Tawnee earned her Bachelor of Applied Science in Psychology from Brigham Young University–Idaho, where she attended from 2010 to 2014. Her education laid the foundation for a decade-long career in behavioral health, culminating in her role at San Tan Behavioral Health Services, where she served as a Behavioral Health Specialist. Her work helped countless individuals navigate mental health challenges, offering therapeutic support with empathy, professionalism, and deep understanding.
In 2021, Tawnee expanded her wellness mission by becoming a Certified Personal Trainer, working at LA Fitness in Mesa. Her unique approach blended her behavioral health expertise with fitness coaching, helping clients achieve transformation not just physically, but mentally and emotionally. She specialized in mind-body connection training, stress and anxiety management through exercise, and habit formation, making her a pioneer in holistic wellness. Her goal was simple yet profound: to guide others toward building a resilient mind and a strong, healthy body.
To those who knew her, Tawnee was more than a coach or therapist—she was a friend, cheerleader, and confidante. She was the one who always showed up, early and eager to help, whether it was slicing cake at a birthday party or offering encouragement during a tough workout. Her magnetic charm, hilarious wit, and deep empathy made her beloved by clients, colleagues, and loved ones alike.
Tawnee’s impact was especially felt through her devotion as a mother to her two children, Braydee and Noah. She created magic in every moment—from holidays to everyday routines—ensuring her kids felt unconditional love and joy. Her love was fierce, pure, and deeply rooted in everything she did.
While the news of her passing has devastated her community, it has also sparked vital conversations around mental health awareness, particularly among wellness professionals and caregivers. Tawnee’s journey is a poignant reminder that those who uplift others often carry silent burdens themselves. In her memory, family members urge everyone to prioritize mental health, extend grace, and check in on even the strongest people in their lives.
Tawnee is survived by her two children, extended family, and a vast network of clients and friends who are heartbroken but grateful for the time they had with her. She is now reunited with loved ones lost, including her father, stepfather, and sister Rachel—a reunion her family believes was beautiful and full of peace.
The Thurber family will soon release details about Tawnee’s celebration of life, where loved ones can gather to honor her radiant spirit, profound legacy, and endless contributions to the mental and physical wellness of others.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to organizations supporting mental health awareness and suicide prevention, in Tawnee’s name. If you or someone you know is struggling, please contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24/7.
