Community Rallies to Support Brasher Family

By SARAH SHMERLING | Editor-in-Chief

James Brasher wore many hats (actor, documentary filmmaker, writer for the Palisadian-Post) and went by many names (Cowboy Jim, Texas Jim, Jimbo)—but his most favorite hat and name was Dad to Amelia.

Jim, born in Houston to parents Cathy Holland and Mike Brasher, grew up alongside his sister Kim in Spring, Texas. After graduating from Sam Houston State University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree specializing in radio, television and film, Jim made his way to California and never left—and never forgot his Texas roots.

After his passing at the age of 48 following a short battle against an aggressive form of colon cancer on Friday, January 17, friends and family members from California, Texas and beyond are rallying to raise funds so that Amelia does not have to struggle financially in the coming years.

At a service at the Community United Methodist Church of Pacific Palisades on Sunday, January 26, close friends of Jim’s shared stories, touching on his never-ending enthusiasm and zest for life—from camping to fishing, hiking, the beach and fried turkeys—and his love for Amelia.

This is the second major loss Amelia has suffered: She lost her mom, Kristen, to brain cancer in 2014.

“After Kristen’s passing, Jim set aside his career and personal aspirations to focus on Amelia,” a GoFundMe set up by two of Jim’s friends, Kevin Monaco and Shoubi Rastegar. “Amelia was Jim’s world. Now, at just 13 years old, Amelia has suffered the inconceivable heartache and pain of losing both of her parents to cancer.”

The Paul Revere Charter Middle School student will live with her aunt Danielle and uncle Jim Rapp in Texas—when Amelia was young, her parents had designated them guardians. Danielle is a retired teacher who now trains teachers nationally and Jim is a high school administrator and football coach in The Woodlands, Texas.

“All funds raised will be administered by Jim and Danielle Rapp and go exclusively toward Amelia’s immediate needs up to and including higher education and beyond,” according to the GoFundMe.

A portion of funds raised will allow Amelia to travel back and forth from Texas to the Palisades to visit her friends on the West Coast.

“The Rapp family would never ask for financial assistance nor have they hesitated to honor Jim and Kristen’s wishes for Amelia,” Monaco and Rastegar shared through the GoFundMe.

“Let us honor our friend by showing Amelia that she is, and will forever be, held in our hearts.”

For more information or to donate, visit gofundme.com/f/Jim-Brasher-Memorial-Fund—For-Amelia.