Kate Ferdinand paid a touching tribute to her stepson Tate's late mother, Rebecca Ellison, during an extravagant birthday celebration for the 18-year-old in Portugal. The former TOWIE star, 34, co-parents Tate, Lorenz (19), and Tia (15) with her husband Rio Ferdinand, 47, who lost his first wife Rebecca to breast cancer in 2015 at age 34.
As the family gathered at their villa to mark Tate's milestone, Kate ensured Rebecca's memory was honored. She shared photos on Instagram, including a special collection featuring a young Tate and Lorenz with their late mother. The image, showing Rebecca cuddling her sons, was prominently displayed among other family pictures, keeping her spirit alive more than a decade after her passing.
Fans quickly praised Kate's thoughtful gesture. Comments included: "That pic of the 2 boys with their mummy, you're the best," "The pictures with their mum, honestly no one better could have come into their lives," and "So lovely to have that memory of his mum." Others wrote: "The picture of him with his mom got me, we all know she was watching!" and "Their mummy would be so proud of you Kate."
Kate also showcased other highlights from the celebration, including a family photo with Rio and all five children. The poolside decor featured dozens of candles in glass flutes and giant illuminated letters spelling "Tate." Mini burger toppers depicted a toddler-aged Tate with a party hat, while personalized chip cartons and sunglasses with "Tate 18" added to the festive atmosphere.
Tate, whose actual birthday is in August, was seen enjoying himself with a sparkler in his mouth, dancing with loved ones. The gallery also captured romantic moments between Kate and Rio, who married in 2019. Kate wore a pale pink dress with a drop waist for the occasion.
In the past, Kate has spoken openly about the challenges of being a stepmother after the children lost their mother. In her book How To Build A Family, she wrote: "If I could bring Rebecca back, I would in an instant because of the pain I've seen in them. A child losing their parent is horrendous." She described feeling like she was "walking in the steps of someone else's life" and even felt grief for Rebecca, despite never having met her. Kate acknowledged the guilt of those emotions but realized she shared a bond with Rebecca as a mother to the children.
