Gemma Collins has been left devastated after her mother Joan died at the age of 70. The reality star took to Instagram to confirm the news, saying she was "shattered into a million pieces" following the tragic loss.
Joan's role in Gemma's life
Joan was a regular feature in Gemma's life, making appearances on various TV shows including The Only Way is Essex (TOWIE). She also appeared in Gemma's own shows and helped market and promote her brands. Fans have flooded the comments section with condolences for the Celebrity Big Brother star.
In her heartbreaking Instagram post, Gemma shared several photos of her mother and revealed Joan had been battling a short illness. She wrote: "My heart is shattered into a million pieces. Today our beautiful mum passed away peacefully surrounded by love mum. Today, every piece of my heart left with you. No words will ever be enough to thank you for loving me, guiding me, and being my mum."
She continued: "You gave me life, you gave me strength, and you gave me memories that I will carry for every day I have left. The house will never sound the same without you. Your voice, your smile, your little ways, they are woven into every corner of my life. I will miss you more than I could ever put into words."
Joan's hospitalisation
Just last month, Joan had been rushed to hospital after contracting pneumonia again. This was not the first time she required treatment; she had been admitted to Broomfield Hospital the previous year. Gemma noted that her mother would no longer be in pain and could now walk again in heaven, hoping Joan can laugh again and "feel light" away from her burden.
Tributes from TOWIE co-stars
Fellow TOWIE star Megan McKenna led tributes, commenting: "Oh Gemma my heart breaks for you. I'm so sorry. Thinking of you so much." Billie Shepherd also wrote: "Sending you so much love Gemma. Your beautiful mum will be forever proud of you. Thinking of you all. Absolutely gutted to hear this. Lots of love darling."
