Three members of the Putman family, once known for their TLC reality show Meet the Putmans, have died in a devastating car crash that also left several relatives injured.
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Bill “Papa” Putman, his wife Barbara “Neenee” Putman, and their daughter-in-law Megan Putman were killed when a semi-truck collided with their vehicle in Tuscola County, Michigan, on Friday. The family confirmed the news in a statement shared on their social media and YouTube channel, Growing Up Putman.
“I come to you with a heavy heart, asking for your prayers. Our family was in a tragic car accident and we lost Papa, Neenee and Aunt Megan,” the statement said. “They have gone home to be with the Lord.”
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Several other family members — identified as Uncle Blake, Lulu, Alena, Noah and Gia — remain hospitalized. “We are asking for complete healing and strength for each of them,” the family said, adding, “My entire family … all proclaimed that Jesus Christ is our Lord and Savior. He is our hope, our peace and our salvation. Even in this time of heartbreak, we rest in knowing that God is in control.”
The Tuscola County Sheriff’s Office reported that the semi-truck driver failed to stop at a sign, causing the fatal collision. The driver was arrested and is awaiting formal charges.
Though the Putmans’ time on TLC was brief, their family-centered lifestyle and strong faith left a lasting impact on many. Just days before the tragedy, Barb shared a heartfelt message to her husband on Instagram, writing: “You never waiver from your love for Christ and you point us to Him each and every day. As a dad and papa you are such a gift to our family … You guide with patience, protect with strength and nurture from the heart always pointing us to Christ.”
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As the family grieves, they expressed gratitude to those offering comfort: “Thank you for every prayer, message, and act of love. Your support means more than words can express.”
James Lasher, a seasoned writer and editor at Charisma Media, combines faith and storytelling with a background in journalism from Otterbein University and ministry experience in Guatemala and the LA Dream Center. A Marine Corps and Air Force veteran, he is the author of The Revelation of Jesus: A Common Man’s Commentary and a contributor to Charisma magazine.
