The TLC reality star penned an emotional message via social media.
My Big Fat Fabulous Life star Whitney Thore recently revealed a saddening personal loss.
On Sunday, Jan. 5, the reality TV personality took to Instagram with a video montage to share that she’s mourning the death of someone who had been in her life for over a decade.
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In the social media post, she announced that her friend Jessica Powell‘s father had died. “Rest in peace, Coach,” she opened the lengthy caption.
She continued to share her history with the man, who was identified as fitness and lifestyle coach, Will Powell.
“Most of the time I’ve spent with Will has been in his gym, but last year my dad and I went down to his family farm to spend Christmas there,” Thore explained. “Seeing Will in this context was profound to me, because he’s a cultivator in every sense of the word— of land, of people, of growth, and of dreams.”
The 40-year-old had nothing but loving words to say about the deceased, adding that when they met “15 years ago, the trajectory of [her] life changed in so many ways.”
“Will has been my coach, my mentor, my friend, and a father figure to me, and the number of other people who would say the same is simply unknowable,” she credited.
“His accomplishments are literally too many to list. The impact he has had and the love he has poured into his family and his community is indescribable. There’s not a person who has met him, or even observed him from afar, who isn’t a better person because of his kindness, his compassion, his encouragement, and his strength.”
“I have loved him like my own father. I am devastated that he is gone and I am determined to help carry on the amazing legacy he leaves behind,” the TLC series star’s tribute went on.
As video moments of Will flashed across the screen, including farm/yard work, gym activities, and dancing at his daughter’s wedding, the caption ended with a heartwarming sentiment: “The life Will lived is an example of a life well lived, and we are so, so lucky to have had him. 🤍 Please keep Terry, Jess, and the rest of the Powell family in your thoughts.”
Viewers in the comments section couldn’t help but drop emotional messages, like two who added, “Instant tears – this really stunned me. He put so much goodness into the world. ❤️ Sending his family love” and “It’s crazy to have never met someone personally but feel a love for them. I enjoyed watching him on the show, his good heart radiated through the television screen just as with his daughter ❤️ My condolences 🙏🏼.”
“The kindness of this man’s heart and soul could be seen and felt even by us. My deepest condolences to you, and especially Jess and her family at this difficult time. Sending warm thoughts and lots of love❤️,” a third said.
