Former WWE star Stacy Keibler has released a deeply moving tribute following the death of actor James Van Der Beek, after spending his final moments with him and his family. The Dawson's Creek star's passing was confirmed by his loved ones on social media on Wednesday, concluding his public two-year battle with colorectal cancer.
An Emotional Final Farewell
According to an emotional statement posted on her Instagram, Keibler remained by the side of the Dawson's Creek star during his final battle with cancer. She wrote a lengthy and poignant message reflecting on their time together.
Keibler's Poignant Words
In her tribute, Keibler expressed: '@vanderjames Spending these final days with you has been a true gift from God. I have never been so present in my life. When you know time is sacred, you don't waste a single breath. You don't rush. You don't scroll.'
'You don't worry about tomorrow. You sit. You listen. You hold hands. You watch the sky change colors and you let it change you too. In these past days, you taught me more about being present than any book ever could. You showed me what it looks like to trust God's plan, even when it breaks your heart.'
A Sacred Connection
Keibler continued: 'Especially when it breaks your heart. The other night we watched the sunset together as you shared your wisdom, your hopes, and the promises we made to each other. We talked about how this world can feel upside down…and how maybe heaven needs your spirit now to help steady us down here. And just as the sun slipped away, a shooting star crossed the sky…as if to remind us that none of this is random. You are a gift.'
Honoring a Legacy
She praised Van Der Beek as 'An incredible husband. An extraordinary dad. The way you showed up for @vanderkimberly and your children…steady, strong, devoted…was a blessing to witness. It has been an honor to stand beside your family in these sacred moments.'
Keibler added: 'It's pretty incredible how someone can fight so hard for so long, travel the world battling so much, and somehow still look so handsome doing it. That smile never left you. You have given this world so many gifts. Your presence was a bright light in my life, and in so many others.'
A Spiritual Perspective
Reflecting on his passing, she wrote: 'And while your physical body may no longer be here, I know your spirit is doing big things. I feel it already. We may have lost a good one here on earth… but heaven gained something extraordinary. I will think of you every time I watch a sunset. Every time I see a rainbow stretch across the sky. I'll know you're there.'
A Lasting Lesson
Keibler concluded her tribute with a powerful message: 'And maybe the lesson you leave us with is this: The present moment is everything. Love the people in front of you. Say the words. Watch the sunset. Trust God, even when you don't understand. Thank you for changing me. I will carry you with me. Always.'
The news of James Van Der Beek's death has sparked an outpouring of grief and support from fans and colleagues across the entertainment industry, highlighting his impact both on and off screen.
