Brandon Grieves Sudden Death Of Thai Hot Chef And Co-Owner

BRANDON, FL — Thai Hot Restaurant in Brandon is temporarily closed as family and staff grieve the death of chef Chris Demian, who died of injuries suffered in a fall on Thursday, the Demian family wrote on the business's Facebook page and GoFundMe page.

Chris was the husband of restaurant owner Philay Demian and father of their two daughters, ages 11 and 13.

The family said on GoFundMe that Chris experienced a seizure that caused him to hit his head; that in turn caused his brain to swell and bleed.

"This wonderful family has fought as a team to keep their business, Thai Hot open, safe and serving Brandon, and the greater Tampa area all during the pandemic," said Kimberly Hoffpauir, a longtime family friend who set up a GoFundMe account for the family. "Then about a month ago, Chris, Philay’s husband and partner of 14 years, began experiencing grand mal seizures. Chris had no health problems prior to the seizures. It’s been a shock. He had experienced three prior to Thursday, September 3."

As he was unconscious in the hospital, the family kept the Brandon community updated on his conditions via social media.

Many prayers were offered from the community and donations are being given to the GoFundMe account set up for the family. Community members, such as Susan Hopkins have shown their support with donations and messages: "Our deepest condolences. While we never met Chris, his sister Jen Sams is a dear friend of ours. May your network of family and friends surround you during this tough time. Prayers lifted for everyone dealing with this tragic loss. - The Hopkins Family."

Scrilla Bee posted on the business's page, "Sending you so much love from us."

On Wednesday, the family posted on the GoFundMe page:

"Dearest Family and Friends, it is with overwhelming sadness that we write to let you know that our dear father, husband and friend, Chris Demian, passed away on Wednesday, September 8. Our community has lost a loving, caring and genuine person. We have lost the love of our lives and that’s a huge space that may never be filled. -Philay, McKenzie and Madyson"

If you would like to help the family during this time, donations are being accepted on their GoFundMe page.