Former TOWIE star Gemma Collins has revealed her heart is 'shattered into a million pieces' after confirming her mum Joan has died
21:13, 29 Jul 2026Updated 21:33, 29 Jul 2026
A heartbroken Gemma Collins has shared the devastating news that her mum has died. She revealed her heart is "shattered into a million pieces" following the death of Joan aged 70.
In an emotional statement, Gemma shared the sad news on Instagram. She wrote: "My heart is shattered into a million pieces. 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. 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."
She went on to say she hopes he mum is finally free from pain and can walk again. She also said she hopes her mum is able to now laugh once again and "feel light".
Gemma continued: "I hope you are surrounded by peace and by everyone who has gone before you, watching over us with love."
She then praised her mum, thanking her for "every hug, every sacrifice, every lesson, and every moment".
"Thank you for being my mum. It has been the greatest privilege to be your daughter," she went on. "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.
"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."
Gemma shared a throwback black-and-white image of her mum alongside her touching words. Joan featured alongside her daughter on The Only Way Is Essex on a number of occasions.
Former co-star Megan McKenna was among those sending messages of condolence in the comments section. She said: "Oh Gemma my heart breaks for you. I’m so sorry. Thinking of you so much."
Billie Shepherd also 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"
Joan was rushed to hospital last month. Gemma shared her mum had contracted pneumonia again at the time. Last year the reality TV star had urged her fans to pray for Joan and thanked the medical staff at Broomfield Hospital for looking after her mum.
Joan had been rushed to the hospital several times over the past few years. In 2024, Gemma revealed that Joan had been unwell, informing fans that "no day is to be taken for granted."
She said at the time: "No day is to be taken for granted. Mum went for a check-up and was kept in the hospital last night. This year has been one thing after another."
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