Late James Van Der Beek's ex-wife Heather McComb pens emotional tribute, calls him ‘a beautiful soul’

Following James Van Der Beek’s untimely death to colorectal cancer on February 11, his ex-wife Heather McComb has been holding onto a lot, and has finally opened up in an emotional tribute she penned for the late actor. McComb, who was married to James from 2003 to 2009, detailed her heartbreak over saying goodbye to “beloved” James.In an emotional Instagram post on February 12, Heather McComb wrote, “I am especially heartbroken for his incredible wife Kimberly, his beautiful children and his amazing family, and all of his family and friends who I know he loved deeply.” Accompanying her tribute was a black and white photo of a much younger version of her and James holding each other close, which she explained was taken on her 21st birthday. "This is how I will always see James,” Heather continued. “Innocent, kind and pure of heart. What a journey we shared over the years. I sit here in immense gratitude for the special connection, friendship and love that James and I shared that has endured through decades.”Noting she and James shared “last loving words,” she added that the late actor “was a beautiful soul filled with so much light, love, talent, humor, depth, sensitivity, knowledge and a deep love of God that shined through him.” Heather McComb’s heartfelt tribute James’ brave legacy She also commended James for sharing his diagnosis with colon cancer with the world in 2024. “James was a blessing to all that knew him,” she said, “and because of his boldness to share his journey with the world so bravely is now a blessing to all.”She finished her heartfelt tribute, which included reference to the GoFundMe that has been set up to support Kimberly and their kids, with the words, “Till we meet again you sweet soul you. Prayers up.”