Rio Ferdinand Posts Emotional Tribute To His Beloved Mum After Cancer Took Her Life

Rio Ferdinand has bared his soul with a touching tribute to his late mum, who he has called his "shining light".

The former Manchester United and England defender lost his mum this week following her battle with cancer. Janice St Fort, 58, died in hospital on Thursday with her family at her bedside.

Her death came just two years after Ferdinand lost his wife Rebecca Ellison to breast cancer. His message on Instagram read: "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.

"All I ever wanted in life from as young as I can remember was to make you proud.
"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...'!!!

"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.

"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"