Ruth Langsford defended by fans as she shares emotional family memory after tragic losses

Ruth Langsford was flooded with support by fans as they jumped to her defence after she shared an emotional family memory following two tragic losses in her life. The Loose Women star was marking Father’s Day when she remembered her late dad as well as her late sister.

Ruth’s dad, Dennis, passed away in 2012 at the age of 84, having first shown symptoms of Alzheimer’s’ in the 1990s. In his final years, the former army sergeant was cared for at home by his wife and Ruth’s mother, Joan. The TV star’s mum, now 91, later developed dementia herself and is living in a care home.

Meanwhile, the presenter’s sister Julia, who battled depression, sadly died at the age of 62 in 2019. So marking the annual occasion over the weekend, Ruth posted a throwback photo of her dad with her elder sister on his shoulders.

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Paying tribute to her loved ones, she wrote: “Happy Father’s Day to all the wonderful Dads out there….hope you’re having a fantastic day being spoilt by your families. I’m remembering both my wonderful Dad Dennis and my sister Julia today….this is them on a day out while my Mum was still in hospital with me just after I’d been born. Singapore 1960.” She also added the hashtags: “#fathersday #family #memories #love.”

Ruth was quickly flooded with messages of love and support as some also spoke of their own losses with the former This Morning host. @retrogayn said: “Lovely photo Ruth and sounds like a wonderful dad.” @calizearlebeauty commented: “So much joy in their faces. Sending you all the love.”

@sarajane231 wrote: “Lots love to you Ruth lovely pic of dad and your sister.” @denisesunners replied: “I hope you are doing ok Ruth . Hold on to your memories.” @gillz87 shared: “Such a beautiful photo, so precious. Sending love Ruth.” @pidduckwendy added: “Sending much love to you Ruth. Beautiful pic.”

And while Ruth was inundated with positive comments, some social media trolls accused the 63-year-old of snubbing husband Eamonn Holmes in her Father’s Day tribute after they confirmed their plans to divorce last month after 14 years of marriage.

Sticking up for Ruth, @paulinejorge said: “But he isn’t her Dad! His children should post a tribute,not Ruth,s responsibility!” @mimimine16 shared: “Is that necessary!!! As everyone says …. Eamon is NOT her father! Ridiculously stupid comment.” @glyn_mcw added: “Eamonn isn’t Ruth’s father… I’m sure his children will wish him a Happy Father’s Day themselves as they are all adults and don’t need their Mothers to do it for them.”