Gemma Collins has announced the death of her mother Joan, sharing a moving tribute on Instagram. The former The Only Way Is Essex star posted a black and white picture of Joan as a young woman, revealing she passed away on Wednesday evening, July 29.
Heartfelt Tribute
In her post, Gemma wrote: '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.'
Health Struggles
Joan had been in hospital several times over recent years. In 2024, Gemma revealed her mother was unwell, telling fans 'no day is to be taken for granted.' Last month, Joan was rushed into hospital again, with Gemma sharing that she had contracted pneumonia.
Gemma added in her tribute: 'I hope you are finally free from pain. I hope you can walk again, laugh again, and feel light. I hope you are surrounded by peace and by everyone who has gone before you, watching over us with love. Thank you for every hug, every sacrifice, every lesson, and every moment.'
She concluded: 'Sleep peacefully, my beautiful Mum what gives me comfort was today we was all with you. You will be loved forever, missed every single day, and never, ever forgotten.'
Outpouring of Support
Gemma was quickly flooded with messages of love and support. Sir Elton John shared: 'So sad to hear. Our thoughts are with you and your family.'
Former TOWIE co-star Amy Childs said: 'Thinking of you Gemma, what a beautiful lady your mum was, xxxx RIP beautiful Joan xxx.' Lauren Goodger commented: 'So sorry Gem. Thinking of you and sending you so much love my darling, thinking of you all xx.'
Billie Shepherd 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.' Former Love Island winner Dani Dyer replied: 'Oh Gemma I’m so so sorry, thinking of you.' Emmerdale's Lisa Riley added: 'My heart breaks for you. Our Mums went to heaven on exactly the same day. Your forever angel.'
