Former “The Only Way is Essex” member Gemma Collins announced on July 29, 2026 that her mother Joan sadly passed away at the age of 70. The 45-year-old media personality penned a heartfelt tribute to her late mother on Instagram, saying her heart has been broken into a million pieces. Many well-wishers expressed their condolences and support for the reality star’s tragic passing.
Gemma Collins writes heartfelt message on Instagram
Collins noted in an old photo of Joan filled with joy that her mother died peacefully surrounded by her family. “Today, every fiber of my heart is gone from you. No words are enough to thank you for loving me, guiding me, and being my mom. You gave me life, you gave me strength, you gave me memories that I will remember every day that I am gone,” she wrote in the caption. “This house will never sound the same without you. Your voice, your smile, your little gestures, they are in every corner of my life. I miss you more than words can express. I hope you are finally free of pain. I hope you can walk again, laugh again, and feel light. I hope you are surrounded by peace, surrounded by everyone who has passed before you, guarding us with love,” the Sugar Free star said, thanking her mother for every sacrifice, lesson and hug. Additionally, Collins mentioned that it is an honor 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 song of the birds, 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 is a well-known personality in reality television and has appeared in various shows. She has been battling pneumonia and arthritis and was previously diagnosed with breast cancer, The Sun reported.