Derek Hough’s Wife Hayley Erbert Mourns Devastating Family Loss

Derek Hough‘s wife, Hayley Erbert, is feeling love from fans after announcing a devastating family loss.

In a Tuesday, July 28, Instagram post, the former Dancing With the Stars troupe member revealed that her stepfather, Jim, had passed away several days prior. “It has been a week since Jim left us earth side, a week since his beautiful soul was set free,” Erbert wrote. “He was the best bonus dad there was, even though ‘bonus’ will never be a big enough word. He showed me that being a dad isn’t about biology. It’s about showing up. It’s about consistency, patience, protection, and love.”

Erbert said she was “so lucky” to have her stepfather in her life, describing him as “one of those rare people who made the world feel gentler just by being in it.” She added, “Selfless in every sense, his kindness showed in everything he did, his calm made everyone feel safe, and his quiet humor was there for anyone paying close enough attention. To know him was to love him.”

Referring to her and Hough’s 7-month-old daughter, Erbert continued, “Everley didn’t have nearly as much time with him as any of us wish she could’ve, but she now has the best guardian angel.” She concluded the tribute by writing, “I will love you forever, Jim. And I will miss you even more.”

 

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A post shared by Hayley Erbert Hough (@hayley.erbert)

Erbert’s post featured several photos of her stepfather from over the years, including ones of her and Jim at her and Hough’s 2023 wedding and snaps of Jim playing with and holding baby Everly. The upload’s last slide featured another wedding pic of Erbert posing with Jim and her mother, Debbie.

Fans flooded the post’s comments with their condolences for Erbert and her family. “So so sorry for your loss. I had a bonus Dad too and your words couldn’t be more perfect. May Jim rest in peace and watch over you with his guiding light,” one user wrote. Another added, “Saw you on stage last Tuesday in the rawness of this news. I am sorry for your loss. Everyone would love a bonus dad like Jim. Glad he was such a good dad to you.”

Someone else shared, “I’m sorry for your loss Hayley. Sending you and your family so much love.” A different person posted, “So sorry for your loss. May all of your wonderful memories of Jim bring you comfort.”

Several celebrities also hopped in the comments to send their well-wishes to Erbert, including Nina Dobrev, who posted several broken heart emojis. “Sending you so much love Hayley. At the wedding, Jim and [my husband] Daniel got along so well his kindness really stayed with us. We’ve found ourselves talking about him so many times since then,” wrote Amy Purdy. Lindsey Stirling shared, “Sending you and your family so much love. Your kindness and light is a testament to the kind of man Jim must have been. The way you describe him is so beautiful and inspiring. He left a wonderful legacy in you.”

Erbert’s sister-in-law, Julianne Hough, said, “Jim will always and forever live in our hearts as we continue to keep his presence alive. Love you Jim, wrapping you all in love.” Former DWTS pro Lindsay Arnold wrote, “I’m so sorry for your loss sending you and your family so much love,” while current pro Witney Carson shared, “Love you so much Hayles.”