Lisa Riley has been left devastated following the sad death of her 'second mother'.
The Emmerdale actress, 47, who is best known for playing Mandy Dingle on the ITV soap, took to Instagram on Monday morning to share the sad news that her beloved aunt Joyce had passed away. In a gushing tribute, Lisa described her family member as her 'second mother' as she spoke of her sadness.
Lisa also mentioned the impact the loss of her dear friend Robin Windsor has had on her following the shock news of his death last month. The Strictly Come Dancing star's tragic at the age of 44 was announced last month, with tributes pouring in for the late star from across the world.
Taking to Instagram to remember both Robin and her beloved aunt, Lisa penned: "Just when I thought my heart couldn’t hurt anymore, after just losing Robin, I have had more devastating news. Last night my 2nd Mum, my solid hand to hold since I was born. My gorgeous Aunty Joyce has sadly passed away, joining my Mum, where they can now giggle again in heaven together.
"Who came to every single show I performed in since the age of 7…Aunty Joyce, who came to every set and supported every inch of my career, Aunty Joyce. Constantly held me up when Mum passed, Aunty Joyce, gave me confidence when I didn’t think I could do it Aunty Joyce.
What Ola and James Jordan really ate and did to shed 7st"Let me dress up, put makeup on and sing endless songs from Annie, Aunty Joyce. Who I drank my last glass of wine EVER with before I became sober - Aunty Joyce.
"You lived your life to absolute fullest, travelled the world and I listened. It became my hunger to discover all the world has to offer, your heart is bigger than anyone I have ever known, your kindness and empathy shone from you. You gave the best advice and I think that's what I will miss the absolute MOST….because you know me inside out, back to front, and everything in between."
Lisa went on: "I trust you the most, always have. REST IN PEACE. Who can I watch BEACHES with now???? We’ve only watched it over a hundred times. I love you, always will, but MOSTLY I thank you, for your time, endless time, when you knew I really needed it. You went to heaven on Mothers Day, can’t quite believe this. The biggest love to Uncle Jess and Si."
It comes just weeks after Lisa paid tribute to her former Strictly Come Dancing professional partner Robin. Robin and Emmerdale star Lisa reached the semi-final of the BBC show back in 2012, where they forged a special friendship. Following the tragic news of his death, the dancer's friends and fans have been paying tribute to Robin, including his pal Lisa, who told her followers her heart was "broken".
Taking to X, formerly known as Twitter, Lisa wrote: "My Bestie, My Robin, My Angel…….now our forever Angel, who is loved, will always be loved, forever in my heart……my very broken heart, I love you, shine your beautiful, electric energy from heaven. SHINE IN PEACE," followed by broken-hearted emojis.