Broken Heart: Joy-Anna Duggar Honors the Life and Loss of Daughter Annabell Elise Forsyth
On July 1, 2025, Joy-Anna Duggar Forsyth marked what would have been the 6th birthday of her daughter, Annabell Elise Forsyth — a baby girl she and her husband, Austin, lost at just 20 weeks of pregnancy. In a deeply emotional tribute shared on social media, Joy remembered her little angel with love, tears, and faith.
“Happy heavenly 6th birthday Annabell Elise Forsyth ✨👼🏼,” Joy wrote, adding a gentle warning that “some photos may be disturbing to some.” The post included heart-wrenching photos from the day of Annabell’s silent birth, capturing the fleeting moments the couple had with their daughter — moments that have remained etched in their hearts.
A Devastating Loss
In June 2019, Joy-Anna and Austin announced they were expecting their second child. But during a routine 20-week ultrasound, they received the heartbreaking news that their baby’s heart had stopped beating. Joy was induced and gave birth to Annabell Elise on July 1, 2019.
“We named her Annabell Elise,” Joy shared at the time. “She’s perfect, and she’s beautiful. Even though she only lived inside me for 20 weeks, she’ll always be part of our family. We love her so much.”
Grieving in the Public Eye
The loss of their daughter was a painful moment for Joy and Austin, whose lives had been documented for years on 19 Kids and Counting and Counting On. Yet, instead of grieving in silence, Joy chose to be open about their heartbreak — a decision that has helped thousands of other women who’ve experienced miscarriage or stillbirth feel seen and supported.
Through her Instagram and YouTube channel, Joy chronicled her healing journey. She shared the deep sorrow that followed Annabell’s death, her fears during future pregnancies, and the joy that came when she later welcomed two more children — Gideon and Evelyn. But she has always emphasized that no child can ever replace Annabell.
Annabell’s Place in Their Family
Each year, the Forsyths continue to honor Annabell’s memory. Joy often posts heavenly birthday messages, lights candles in her honor, and keeps her name alive in their home. The hashtag “#InTheArmsOfJesus” — a symbol of Joy’s faith — frequently accompanies these tributes, a reminder of her belief that Annabell is safe and loved in Heaven.
A Mother’s Eternal Love
Six years have passed since that heartbreaking day, but Joy-Anna’s love for her daughter remains as strong as ever. Through her vulnerability, she’s become a source of comfort for other grieving mothers and a voice of hope for those enduring unimaginable pain.
“You are forever my baby girl,” Joy wrote in her most recent tribute. “I miss you every single day. Until we meet again.”
