Gemma Collins, former ‘The Only Way is Essex’ member, announced the devastating demise of her mother, Joan, at age 70 on July 29, 2026. The 45-year-old media personality penned an earnest tribute to honour her late mother on Instagram, stating that her heart is shattered into a million pieces. Many well-wishers shared condolences and support for the reality show star’s unfortunate loss.
Gemma Collins writes a heartfelt note on Instagram
With an old picture of Joan full of glee, Collins mentioned that her mother had passed away peacefully, surrounded by family. “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,” she wrote in the caption. “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. 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,” the ‘Sugar Free Farm’ star said, thanking her mother for every sacrifice, lesson, and hug. Furthermore, Collins mentioned that it was a privilege to be her daughter.“Until we meet again, I will carry your love with me. I will look for you in the sunrise, in the flowers, in the birds singing, and in the quiet moments when I need you most,” Gemma concluded, adding that her mother will be missed, cherished, and never forgotten. Joan Collins was a prominent figure in reality television and appeared on various programs. According to The Sun, she had been battling pneumonia and arthritis, along with her previous breast cancer diagnosis.
