One year after the tragic death of Liam Payne, his elder sisters, Ruth Gibbins and Nicola Payne, have shared poignant reflections on their ongoing processes of grief. Their social media tributes underscore a profound sense of loss and the enduring impact of their brother’s absence.
Ruth, through an emotional Instagram post this week, articulated the crushing reality of his passing. “One year, 12 months, 52 weeks, 365 days… however you say it, it’s still the most heartbreaking truth, you’re not here,” she wrote. She recalled the comfort of knowing he would return from tours, a solace now replaced by the permanent inability to reach him. This has left an “eternal longing” for a past that cannot be revisited.
She admitted to a profound underestimation of grief, describing it as a force that paralyzes her daily. Ruth differentiated Liam’s death from previous losses, calling it “the loss of my life,” an intense sadness unlike any before. She spoke of the cruel lesson of learning in her thirties that having a brother does not guarantee a lifetime of shared experiences. His death, she stated repeatedly, “will never make sense,” despite any analysis. She continues to relive Liam’s final moments, which ultimately “changed everything” for their family.
Ruth also expressed a deep desire to share life’s milestones with him. “So much has happened in a year, so much to tell you,” she added, noting how their children have changed and how Liam would still be “amazed” by his son. Despite visiting beautiful places, she said, his absence is felt “from any corner of the world.” Her post concluded with hopes that he hears her, guides her, knows her infinite love, and that she can be his sister “in all lifetimes.” Liam’s former girlfriend, Danielle Peazer, offered support in the comments section with a red heart emoji.
Liam Payne died in October 2023, at the age of 31, following a fatal fall from a hotel balcony in Argentina. He is survived by his parents, his two sisters, and his 8-year-old son with ex-partner Cheryl Cole.
Nicola Payne also posted her own tribute on Instagram, calling October 16 “a date she never wanted to see again.” She described it as “the day our lives changed forever and our hearts were broken, with pieces missing.” Nicola affirmed that Liam has remained constant in her thoughts over the past year. She and her family tell stories to feel closer to him, cherishing every memory. She continues to acknowledge him daily, as if he were still present.
Central to Nicola’s message was the promise to keep Liam’s memory alive for her children and, significantly, for his son. “We will ensure Bear knows all about the amazing dad he has,” she wrote, emphasizing not just his musical accomplishments but “all the things that made you, you.” She recalled his childhood jokes, laughter, pranks, his caring nature, his desire for others to succeed, and his joy in being an entertainer.
Nicola expressed wishes for Liam’s happiness and peace, hoping he knows how loved he is. “Hope you continue to light up the places you go, your joyful laughter brightens people’s spirits & our grandmas & grandads get you to perform every chance they get,” she added. She finds comfort in believing he can watch over them “from the best seat in the house,” even as it breaks her heart that they can no longer share their lives. Her message concluded with an affirmation of enduring pride and love. “I love you Liam. I will never stop missing you & I will always be so proud of you.”