Derek and Julianne Hough Mourn Devastating Death: 'Losing a Part of Our Family's Soul'

  • Oops!
    Something went wrong.
    Please try again later.
  • Oops!
    Something went wrong.
    Please try again later.

Derek Hough and Julianne Hough

Derek Hough and Julianne Hough are mourning a devastating loss.

The siblings' grandmother recently died, Derek announced in an emotional tribute shared via Instagram on Sunday, March 31.

In the social media upload, the professional dancer said "goodbye" to his family matriarch while lovingly describing her personality and what she has meant to him over the years.

"Losing Grandma feels like losing a part of our family’s soul. She was the one with endless stories, each one teaching us something new or just making us double over with laughter," he opened the caption of the post, alongside a few joyful snapshots.

He continued: "Her stories were almost unbelievable, igniting our imaginations. Her love was the kind that made you feel seen, heard, and valued, no matter what. As we say goodbye, I’m reminded of all the beautiful moments we shared, and somehow, it feels like she’s still here, guiding us, loving us."

The tribute included a cover photo of himself with his grandmother smiling as he leaned toward her wheelchair. In another image, Derek sprawled across his sister, Julianne, along with other women in their family.

"Grandma, you’ve given us so much to remember, to cherish, and to pass on. We miss you terribly, but we’re grateful for every second we got to spend with you," the Instagram caption added, before closing, "So long… for now you little stinker.You’ll always be in our hearts, making us smile. We love you."

In the comments section, fans offered their condolences during this difficult time.

"I’m so sorry D. Sending lots of love and prayers to you all. 🙏🏼💕," one wrote, as another said, "YES SHE WAS ABSOLUTELY A BEAUTIFUL SOUL🥰 MY FAVORITE ♥️ SENDING SO MUCH LOVE TO YOU ALL🙏."

"What a beautiful statement of love for your grandmother. It clearly describes an incredible woman to us and what a blessing she was to your family. Deepest condolences 💐 and prayers for the remembrance of sweet memories❤," a third added.

An additional follower chimed in, offering an uplifting note of encouragement: "It is written. “No eyes have seen, nor minds perceived, the things that God has in store for those who love him. All things will be made new! Sorry for your temporary loss. One day soon, your joy will be full."

"Sorry to hear. You certainly are going thru quite a lot on a personal level while in the middle of touring. Make sure you take care of yourself," someone else noticed, likely referencing the fact that his wife, Hayley Erbert, is still recovering from emergency surgery following a life-threatening cranial hematoma in December.

Julianne, for her part, also shared a tribute via Instagram Stories, which is no longer available. "My grandma's such a ham," she quipped alongside one joyful clip. She wrote of a spirited video, "She was always such a playful sweet angel."

"You get to be with grandpa now…and ALWAYS, Happy Day!" she added.

Next: Julianne Hough Breaks Silence on Sister-in-Law Hayley's Hospitalization