Reading Time: 3 minutes
As we previously reported, James Van Der Beek passed away this week at the age of 48.
The Dawson’s Creek star died at home following a courageous battle with colorectal cancer.
Across social media, millions have offered condolences to James’ wife and six children.
And perhaps one of the most meaningful tributes has come from Van Der Beek’s first wife, Heather McComb.
The couple were married from 2003 to 2010, and while they went their separate ways shortly before he married his second wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, it’s clear that Heather had nothing but love and respect for her ex.
“I am heartbroken over the loss of beloved James,” Heather wrote on Instagram Thursday, alongside a photo of herself and Van Der Beek.
“I am especially heartbroken for his incredible wife Kimberly, his beautiful children and his amazing family, Jim, Jared, Juliana and all of his family and friends who I know he loved deeply,” she continued, adding:
“This picture is from my 21st birthday. Dawson’s Creek hadn’t even aired yet. This is how I will always see James innocent, kind and pure of heart.”
From there, Heather paid tribute to James’ second marriage:
James was a beautiful soul filled with so much light, love, talent, humor, depth, sensitivity, knowledge and a deep love of God that shined through him. He shined so bright yet was so humble and human. Always searching, always growing, always going deeper, always chasing things outside his comfort zone. I know that James loved being a father so much and oh how he loved Kimberly with his everything. True soulmates.”
Heather concluded with a plea to her followers to help James’ family financially by contributing to their GoFundMe page.
“I love you James. I know you had a lot of loved ones up there welcoming you home. God bless you. Till we meet again you sweet soul you,” she wrote.
“Prayers up.James family meant everything to him please help cover them during this difficult season. Link to go fund me in my stories.”
Heather’s tribute comes as we’re learning new information about Van Der Beek’s final days.
It seems he knew that the end was approaching, as he received visits from numerous longtime friends.
He also spent his time working on his final professional project, his memoirs.
We don’t know how far he got or when that project might see the light of day, but we’re sure millions of fans would appreciate one last display of James’ famous wit and wisdom.
Our thoughts go out to his loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.
