‘I was afraid we’d all sit down at lunch and have one chair short’: Mollie King credits family with getting them through the festive period as they mourn father Stephen’s death
Mollie King admits she was scared sitting down to Christmas dinner without her dad after he died of a brain tumor in November.
And the former Saturdays singer – who recently gave birth to baby daughter Annabella with her English cricketer fiancé Stuart Broad – says she is grateful to her family and mother after witnessing the mixed feelings ahead of the festive season.
Mollie, whose father Stephen died just three months after being diagnosed with a tumor in August, wrote in a moving post: “This year more than ever I was so grateful to be surrounded by my family at Christmas time.
Sad: Mollie King admits she was scared sitting down to Christmas dinner without her dad after he died of a brain tumor in November
“It was mixed feelings for me heading into Christmas Day as I was concerned we’d all sit down to lunch and be down a chair without our pops at the table.
“I know I’m not the only one who will be missing a loved one this Christmas and my heart goes out to everyone who is going through it too.”
The pop star-turned-radio host added: “It kept reminding me how lucky I am to be surrounded by so many people I love and no doubt the constant chatter from the little one, Annabella for the first time to see laughing. Country walks and Kevin Home Alone reruns ensured we all created special memories and most importantly, my little girl’s Christmas was magical, the way it was meant to be.
“Thanks mom for bringing us all together. Sending so much love to everyone else going through this at this time.
Tragic: Mollie’s father Stephen died just three months after being diagnosed with a brain tumor in August
Loved ones: Mollie accompanied her latest post with a selection of pictures showing the singer and her family on Christmas Day
Mollie shared pictures of her mum and extended family enjoying a holiday get together, as well as a picture of herself and Stuart relaxing with Annabella and accompanied by their puppy Alf.
Following her father’s death, Mollie revealed he’d been staying “a few extra days” so he could meet his new granddaughter.
Confirming his death in November, she wrote: “Indescribably heartbroken. In August, my family’s world was rocked when my father was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Last week we had to face the day we hoped would never come and say goodbye.
Lovely: A wider shot included the whole family as they opened their presents on Christmas morning
We wish you a Merry Christmas: the family dog also lent a hand over the holidays
“Dad, we love you with all our hearts and will miss you every day. You were our hero and it’s impossible to think about our life without you.
“You were always there for us every step we took and even held on for a few extra days to meet baby Annabella.
“You gave us everything. You will be in our hearts and memories every day.”
Heartbreaking: Mollie thanked Instagram followers for their support after confirming her father’s death in November