On Saturday (April 18), Vanessa Bryant remembered her late husband, Kobe, on their 19th wedding anniversary.
The mother of four shared a throwback photo of herself smiling from ear to ear as the former Lakers star kissed her on the cheek. “My king, my heart, my best friend. Happy 19th wedding anniversary baby. I miss you so much. I wish you were here to hold me in your arms. I love you,” she wrote as her Instagram caption. Shortly after sharing the sweet photo, fans praised Vanessa’s strength. “Praying for you every day just like the rest of the world is. I hope your babies visit you in your dreams,” one of the many encouraging comments read.
Vanessa’s post came after her and Kobe’s daughter, Gianna, was selected as an honorary draft pick at this year’s virtual WNBA Draft. “Honorary Draft Picks:❤️ Gianna Bryant❤️ ❤️ Alyssa Altobelli and Peyton Chester❤️ class of 2020,” Vanessa wrote.
Back in January 2020, Gianna, Kobe, Alyssa and Peyton were among the nine victims that died in a tragic helicopter crash. Following the news of their untimely deaths, a memorial service was held at Staples Center to honor those who lost their lives.
During her emotional eulogy, Vanessa detailed Kobe’s wedding anniversary presents throughout the years. She described the late 41-year-old as romantic.
“He was truly the romantic one in our relationship and looked forward to Valentine’s day and our anniversaries every year. He planned special anniversary trips and a special traditional gift for every year of our marriage,” she recalled. “He gifted me the actual notebook and the blue dress that Rachel McAdams wore in The Notebook movie. When I asked him why he chose the blue dress, he said it was because it’s the scene when Ali comes back to Noah.”
Take a look at Vanessa’s heartfelt post below.