On the 12th day following the tragic passing of her beloved husband, Eric Dane, Rebecca Gayheart marked her older daughter Billie's 16th birthday with a heartfelt tribute. On Tuesday, March 3rd, the 54-year-old actress shared a nostalgic photo on her Instagram Stories, depicting a youthful Billie enjoying a special treat. In the throwback snapshot, Billie holds an ice cream cone and beams as she sits at a table.
"Happy Sweet 16 to the sweetest girl – mommy loves you to the moon and back unconditionally forever and ever," Gayheart wrote across the photo. She also included a photo collage showcasing various moments from Billie's life, featuring shots of her and her father Dane.
Dane, who was just 53, passed away on Thursday, February 19th, only 10 months after going public with his diagnosis of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). "With heavy hearts, we share that Eric Dane passed on Thursday afternoon following a courageous battle with ALS," read a statement from Dane's family announcing his death. "He spent his final days surrounded by dear friends, his devoted wife, and his two beautiful daughters, Billie and Georgia, who were the center of his world."
Months before his death, the Euphoria star recorded one last interview as part of Netflix's new series Famous Last Words. In this final interview, conducted in secret and released only after his passing, Dane addressed his teenage daughters Billie and Georgia directly.
"Billie and Georgia, these words are for you," the star began. "I tried. I stumbled sometimes, but I tried. Overall, we had a blast, didn't we?"
"I hope I've demonstrated that you can face anything. You can face the end of your days. You can face hell with dignity. Fight girls, and hold your heads high," he continued, beginning to tear up. "Billie and Georgia, you are my heart. You are my everything. Good night. I love you. Those are my last words."
