Rio Ferdinand reveals heartbreak over tragic death of mum Janice as he posts touching tribute on Instagram
RIO FERDINAND has revealed his heartbreak over the tragic death of his "supermum" Janice, aged 58.
The former Manchester United and England star posted a moving eulogy to his mother on Instagram, after she lost her fight against cancer on Thursday - just as his late wife Rebecca did in 2015.
Brother Anton, 32, also paid his respects to his late mother on the photo sharing service.
Rio, 38, said: "You were an inspirational person in so many ways, one day I will be able to tell you them all face to face."
And the ex-defender posted picture at his home, with Janice holding a Premier League-winner's medal and Ferdinand in a Manchester United tracksuit.
He added: "Mummy. It won't ever be enough but I just want to say thanks, a really big thank you.
"The ability you had to make me feel loved at every moment in my life without even having to say it or be there by my side will never be forgotten.
"You were a fighter, a little fighter but with a huge heart. And you wore that heart on your sleeve throughout.
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"All I ever wanted in life from as young as I can remember was to make you proud and I know I must of got somewhere near to doing that.... because your chest was puffed out as big as anyone's whenever my name was mentioned or when you was in a stadium watching me play... I can just hear/see you now 'what did you say, oh ok...that's my son...'!!!"
Ferdinand also tragically lost his wife Rebecca two years ago after she passed away from breast cancer.
The loss of the mother of Rio's three kids had a profound effect on him.
He has recently found love recently with Towie star Kate Wright, who also paid tribute to Janice.
Ferdinand said: "You were fiery, you were protective, you was soft & hard faced when need be... you loved hard, you disciplined me, you were a grafter & you were my everything.
Anton Ferdinand's heartfelt words
TODAY at 1.35pm I lost my loving caring and forever selfless mum.
Mum for 32 years of my life you’ve done nothing but put me first!
Always cared and worried about others before yourself an inspiration to me my brothers sister and husband Peter and anyone she had in her life.
Mum we will still be having our talks in the morning when I’m on the way to work.
Thank you to all the staff at Guys cancer care for keeping my mum comfortable and pain free on her way to heaven to be with her father.
RIP Mum Love and miss you always mum your son.
Anton xxx
"I sit here now thinking & the only negative I can think of is that you talked for too long on the phone!!
"You gave all of your life to make sure everything was ok for myself, my brothers, sister, your grandchildren & husband "Peter (never mind the countless friends & family too).
"At my most difficult time, you were my shining light & made it your mission to be there for me & my kids... trust me that will never forgotten.
"From school runs to homework to making them smile... to starting horse riding lessons....they will always remember.
"You are the most selfless & giving person I have ever known which came from a genuine place of love.
"The way you have touched so many people's hearts will live on and will be the way many will remember you mum.
"You were an inspirational person in so many ways, one day I will be able to tell you them all face to face.
"Love you mummy, Rio x."
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