Liam Payne‘s loved ones are honoring him on what would have been his 32nd birthday. On Friday, his sister Nicola shared a heartfelt tribute, recalling the time they spent together on his birthday last year, just two months before his death. His girlfriend, Kate Cassidy, also posted a touching letter to Payne.
“A year ago today, we were so full of hope and excitement for what the years ahead would bring you,” Nicola wrote on Instagram Friday, sharing a carousel of images of the two of them from over the years. “That night, celebrating your birthday with bowling and McDonald’s, we celebrated you, your show, your dreams, and spoke of all the plans you had for the future.”
“We ended the evening with a hug, telling you how proud we were and how much we loved you,” she added. “If I had known that would be the last time I’d see you, I would have said so much more.”
Nicola said she wished she could step “into a time machine” to relive that night and hug him once again, ask him more questions, and “write it down so I’d never forget.” She directed some sweet words to Liam, writing that she hopes he’s “at peace.”
“I miss you every single day, and I don’t think there will ever be a day that I don’t,” she wrote. “I want to wish you the happiest heavenly birthday. Wherever you are, I hope you’re celebrating.”
Cassidy also shared some photos of the two from over the years, writing that it “breaks my heart” to not give him a physical birthday card or hear his laugh once again.
“In your 31 years here on this earth, you brought so much joy, happiness and hope to so many- especially to me. I hope you know how brightly you still shine, even from up there,” Cassidy wrote. “I would give up years of my life just to give you a few more. I miss making memories with you. I miss having things to look forward to together.”
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She added, “But today, my birthday gift to you is my strength. I promise you I will celebrate you extra today, honor your life, and cherish the beautiful times we’ve had. August 29th will be a date that sits in my heart for the rest of my life. I love you so much.”
The singer died on Oct. 16, 2024, after falling from the balcony of a hotel room in Buenos Aires. A Rolling Stone investigation included accounts from his inner circle describing the days before his tragic death. Netflix recently released Building the Band, in which Liam served as a mentor for new groups in formation. He was honored on the show as well.
