Gemma Collins has revealed that her mother Joan has died, sharing a heartfelt tribute on social media. The former The Only Way Is Essex star told fans her heart is "shattered into a million pieces" following the loss.
Joan, who appeared alongside her daughter on TOWIE, had been battling pneumonia. The 70-year-old had been taken to hospital last month after contracting pneumonia for the second time in six months.
Emotional Instagram tribute
Collins posted a black-and-white photograph of Joan on Instagram alongside a message dedicated to her "beautiful mum." The caption read: "My heart is shattered into a million pieces. Today our beautiful mum passed away peacefully surrounded by LOVE."
She continued: "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. You gave me life, you gave me strength, and you gave me memories that I will carry for every day I have left."
Messages of support
Collins wrote that she finds comfort knowing her family was by Joan's side at the end. The post featured Michael Jackson's song Gone Too Soon.
Celebrities offered support, including soap star Lisa Riley, who said: "My breaks for you. Our mums went to heaven on exactly the same day, your forever angel." TOWIE friend Amy Childs wrote: "Thinking of you Gemma, what a beautiful lady your mum was xxxx RIP beautiful Joan xxx." Rapper Stormzy left three red heart emojis.
