Tammy Slaton broke down in tears as she struggled to open up about the tragic death of her husband Caleb Willingham.
As previously reported, the husband of the popular 1000-Lb. Sisters star sadly passed away at the age of 40, as confirmed by People.
"I am devastated to share the news of my husband’s passing," Slaton, 36, shared in a statement to the outlet. "He was my best friend and I loved him dearly. When I met Caleb he became my guardian angel and now he really is watching over me. Our families appreciate everyone’s sympathy and ask that you respect our privacy at this time."
The network that hosts the show, TLC, also expressed their condolences, stating: "We are deeply saddened to learn of Caleb Willingham’s passing. Our condolences go out to Tammy, his family, and friends at this difficult time."
Slaton took to her Instagram page on Sunday (July 2) to pay tribute to Willingham by posting several nostalgic pictures of the duo, expressing her deep grief and sorrow at the unexpected loss.
"Rip sweet angel you will forever be missed and loved so much thank you Caleb for showing me real love and happiness," she heartwarmingly penned.
The TV star also opened up about her late partner on TikTok, sharing a heartbreaking video in which she was seen crying profusely. Tammy said: "I hate getting on here and everybody seeing me like this," as she wiped away tears.
Opening up about her grief, she continued: "Yeah, we were having problems, but I loved that man, and I still do I miss him like crazy, but I wanted to thank everybody for - I'm sorry - thank everybody for your comments. I appreciate it, I really do."
The reality TV star said she didn't want to go into details about what happened as "it's really personal," and added: "I know that he's looking down on me. He's not in any pain anymore. I know he's in a better place. Again, thank you all from the bottom of my heart, and believe it or not, he really loved you all too."
Slaton concluded her post by blowing a kiss to the camera. In the caption, she wrote: "I'm sorry I'm crying but just because I'm crying doesn’t mean I'm not strong ive got this #familystrongforcaleb."
The couple's love story began in 2022 at the Windsor Lane Rehabilitation Center in Gibsonburg, Ohio. They got engaged in October and tied the knot one month later, in November.
"You all knew me as Tammy Slaton, but now you'll all know me as Mrs. Tammy Willingham," Tammy announced, according to People. "I'm married now!"
The outlet revealed that the couple's nuptials were held at the rehabilitation center and only 30 friends and family members were invited. The ceremony was officiated by their home care nurse and family friend, Billy.
Reflecting on the special day, Slaton said: "When I saw Caleb at the altar, I was just picturing doves and butterflies all around like God had opened up the clouds and let the sunlight in. It was magical." Willingham reciprocated the sentiment, sharing: "When I finally see her, my heart explodes."
Our thoughts are with Willingham's family and friends at this time.
