A wedding day is supposed to be exciting, a celebration of love and the beginning of the next chapter in the lives of two people. For country music singer Jake Flint and his bride, Brenda Flint, that’s exactly what their wedding day was. Unfortunately, there was no happily ever after.

When Brenda woke up the day after their wedding, she realized something that would be a bride’s worst nightmare. Her new husband was dead.

Just hours after the wedding, Jake, who was only 37 years old, died in his sleep. A cause of death has yet to be determined.

Brenda wrote on Facebook, “We should be going through wedding photos but instead I have to pick out clothes to bury my husband in. People aren’t meant to feel this much pain. My heart is gone and I just really need him to come back. I can’t take much more. I need him here.”

Clif Doyal, Jake’s publicist, told CNN, “Jake Flint was a true Ambassador of the Oklahoma and Texas Red Dirt music scene. He was not only a prolific songwriter, recording artist, and in-demand live performer, but he was also a tireless supporter of other talents throughout the region, always willing to lend a hand to help anyone who needed it. With his infectious smile and disarming sense of humor, he was loved by many, and I believe that, along with his music, will be his lasting legacy.”

Jake’s manager, Brenda Cline, told TODAY that Jake, “had a humble personality, lovable nature, and the ability to keep you laughing till your sides hurt.” She called him “a rising star.”

On Facebook, Cline wrote, “We need prayers- it’s all so surreal. Please please pray for his new wife Brenda, Jake’s precious mother, his sister and the rest of his family and friends. This is going to be incredibly difficult for so many. We love you Jake and in our hearts forever.”

Jake’s funeral was scheduled for December 5, 2022, at Cedar Point Church in Claremore, Oklahoma.

In a statement to TODAY, Jake’s family said, “Our hearts are broken over this tragic loss. Jacob was a beloved son, brother, uncle, and partner to his wife, Brenda. He valued his family, friendships and living life to the fullest, which was evident in his songwriting.” His family added, “Every person who knew him has a story of his wit, charm, talent, and compassion. We are so grateful for the outpouring of support and the many beautiful tributes that have been shared about the impact Jacob had on many lives. While we grieve what we know could have been, we’re grateful that his talent and love live on in his songs.”

Meanwhile, Brenda misses her husband terribly, but she is also incredibly grateful to have her father with her while she deals with her grief. She wrote on Facebook, “I always told Jake he made me the luckiest girl on the planet and I still believe that I am, because I have the love of the two greatest men to ever walk this earth. I love you dad. And I love you this morning, Ole Jacob Flint.”