Sir Rod Stewart and his family have been left devastated following the death of Christina Artukovich, the 38-year-old sister of Nicole Stewart.
Nicole, who is married to Rod's son Liam, announced the heartbreaking news on social media on Wednesday evening.
Christina, who lived in Los Angeles near her sister and brother-in-law, passed away on Monday, March 31, at 11:48pm, according to reports.
The tragic news has sent shockwaves through the Stewart family, with Rod's wife, Penny Lancaster, describing the loss as "heartbreaking" in a message of condolence.
Christina was a beloved member of the extended Stewart family and had been pictured with Rod at Liam and Nicole's wedding in Croatia last year.
In an emotional tribute shared on Instagram, Nicole expressed her profound grief at the loss of her "absolute best friend".
"My big sister gained her angel wings and I'm not sure how I'm meant to do life without her," she wrote alongside photos of the pair.
"My protective big sis that always had my back. She made everyone feel seen, loved, safe. She was the glue that held us and so many together."
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The Stewart family have rallied around Nicole Stewart
Nicole described how Christina's family was "absolutely everything to her" and recalled their daily communication.
"There wasn't a day she didn't check in with each and every one of us. Her daily FaceTime calls, 30 texts at once... I now can't imagine life without them."
The Stewart family has rallied around Nicole during this difficult time, with many sharing tributes to Christina.
Lancaster wrote: "So heartbreaking. Sending all deepest condolences."
Rachel Hunter, Liam's mother and Rod's second wife, commented: "My heart - for you and your family. Such a shock. She had such an incredible energy she always brought into a space, a huge heart."
Rod's first wife, Alana Stewart, added: "I'm so very sorry. God bless you and your family. Sending you love and prayers."
Liam himself posted a moving tribute, writing: "Beans.... my sister in law... you were one of my best friends, if not my best friend besides my wife. I love you and I miss you being around a hell of a lot already."
In her tribute, Nicole made a heartfelt reference to Christina's son, writing: "I'm so proud of the mother you were and the boy you raised. We have Roko now, thank you for giving us him. He shines your love." (sic)
The cause of Christina's death has not been disclosed in any of the family's statements.
Christina, affectionately known as "Beans" to family members, was remembered for her nurturing nature and protective instincts.
Rod had met Christina several times, most notably at Liam and Nicole's wedding in Croatia last May, where the families celebrated what Rod described as "a wonderful union of The Stewarts and The Artukovichs".
The tragic news comes just weeks after Nicole and Liam welcomed their second child, a daughter named Elsie, in honour of Rod Stewart's mother.
The couple are also parents to a son, Louie, who is nearly two years old.
Rod had proudly shared his joy at witnessing Liam and Nicole's wedding last year, posting on Instagram: "I'm immensely proud to have witnessed the beautiful wedding ceremony of my son Liam to his bride Nicole."
"What a wonderful union of The Stewarts and The Artukovichs. May they continue to find joy, love and laughter for as long as they may live."
