Stacy Keibler — former WWE star, actress and longtime friend of James Van Der Beek — has shared a deeply personal tribute detailing their final days together as the beloved actor battled colorectal cancer before his death on Feb. 11, 2026 at age 48.
Keibler’s message, shared on social media in the wake of Van Der Beek’s passing, paints a heartfelt portrait of presence, gratitude and the powerful lessons she learned from her time with the actor.
In a moving Instagram tribute, Keibler called her final time with Van Der Beek “a true gift from God,” highlighting how those last moments transformed her understanding of life, love and connection.
She described watching sunsets with him, sharing deep conversations and fully embracing the present — reflections that resonated with fans and fellow stars alike.
Lessons in Presence and Grace
Keibler’s tribute focused less on celebrity and more on the intimate human experience of watching a friend approach life’s end with dignity and faith.
“When you know time is sacred, you don’t waste a single breath,” she wrote, urging others to cherish moments rather than rush through them.
She spoke of sitting together, listening, and watching the sky change — experiences that she says helped her truly understand what it means to be present.
Keibler also emphasized one of Van Der Beek’s core beliefs: trusting in God’s plan even when it feels inexplicable.
She recalled conversations about life and spirituality, including one moment when a shooting star crossed the sky just as the sun set — a sight she described as a reminder that nothing “is random.”
Those final exchanges, she said, offered insights that will stay with her forever.
She celebrated Van Der Beek not just for his career, but for his unwavering devotion to his family — praising him as “an incredible husband” and “an extraordinary dad.”
Even as cancer took its toll, Keibler wrote, his smile never faded and his spirit remained a guiding light to those around him.
A Legacy of Love and Presence
Keibler’s message has become one of the most intimate and reflective tributes since news of Van Der Beek’s death was announced.
She didn’t just mourn his loss — she shared what she learned from his example: to slow down, truly see the people you love, and embrace life’s fleeting beauty.
Her reflections struck a chord not only with fans but with others who knew Van Der Beek, many of whom echoed similar sentiments about his kindness, generosity and commitment to family.
While his public legacy began with roles like Dawson Leery on “Dawson’s Creek” and expanded into decades of work in film and television, the personal connection he forged with friends remains a powerful part of how he will be remembered.
In her tribute, Keibler wrote that Van Der Beek’s presence has already left an enduring imprint, one she feels in moments like sunsets and rainbows.
“While your physical body may no longer be here, I know your spirit is doing big things,” she shared, underscoring the hope and faith that framed their final days together.
Van Der Beek is survived by his wife, Kimberly, and their six children, and he will be remembered not only as an iconic actor but as a beloved friend, father and source of light to many.
