Liam Payne’s family celebrate his first birthday since his death with heartfelt tributes

‘I hope you know how brightly you still shine, even from up there’


Liam Payne’s family and friends marked his first birthday since his death with heartfelt tributes.

The One Direction singer’s sister and girlfriend both posted online to mark what would have been his 32nd birthday on Saturday, almost a year since his death on October 16th.

Kate shared a series of photos on Instagram of Liam, depicting many of their happy memories together.

In the caption, she wrote: “My dearest Liam, it breaks my heart being that I can’t hand you a physical birthday card today. That I can’t hear your laugh, or tell you all the things I wish I’d said a thousand more times. I’ve been struggling to find the right words, but I’ll start with the most obvious, happy birthday. Today, you would have been 32. 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. 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. But today, my birthday gift to you is my strength. I promise you I will celebrate you extra today, honour 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. Yours, Katelyn.”

Posting on TikTok, Liam’s girlfriend Kate also videod herself making Liam a birthday cake.

@kateecass

happy birthday Liam❤️I know you still have the sweetest tooth in heaven. I’m not very good at baking these days ☹️

♬ original sound – taolee – taolee

Decorating it with sprinkles and one candle, Kate contemplated in front of the camera before blowing it out and sharing a piece with her dog.

Writing in the caption, Kate wrote: “Happy birthday Liam. I know you still have the sweetest tooth in heaven. I’m not very good at baking these days.”

One user noticed how the numbers on Kate’s cooker read 11 the moment she blew out the candle, explaining the significance: “When you blew the candle, the numbers on your stove were 11, make it 111 with the one candle on the birthday cake. Liam is sending you angel numbers right there. Stay strong sweet girl, sending my love and prayers to you.”

Liam’s older sister, Nicole, shared a series of photos of Liam on Instagram, along with a statement.

She wrote: “A year ago today, we were so full of hope and excitement for what the year ahead would bring you. 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.

“If I had known that would be the last time I’d see you, I would have said so much more. I wish I could step into a time machine and relive that night hug you tighter, capture your smile and voice, ask more questions, and write it all down so i’d never forget. I hope you’re happy, at peace, and know just how deeply you are loved.

“I miss you every single day, and I don’t think there will ever be a day that I don’t. So today, on your birthday, I want to wish you the happiest heavenly birthday. wherever you are, I hope you’re celebrating and hopefully you’ve scored a few strikes too.

“Love you always.”

Nicola also posted a carousel of photo tributes to Liam Payne for his birthday, including selfies, fancy dress photos and photos of him on stage. Her last few posts have all been dedicated to her brother, including the six month anniversary of his death and immediately after his death.

Featured image via Instagram @katecass @np2788

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