Life has a way of reminding us just how precious every moment is. On Monday, February 10, Al Roker's eldest daughter, Courtney Roker Laga, shared the heartbreaking news of her mother Alice Bell's passing. In a deeply personal post, she expressed her love and gratitude for the woman who shaped her life and the lives of those around her.
A Mother's Legacy
Courtney, who is 37 years old, took to Instagram to announce the loss of her mother in a way that truly honored Alice's memory. Alongside the heartfelt message, she shared a beautiful montage of photos capturing the bond they shared through the years. Among the images were precious moments of Alice holding her granddaughter, Sky Clara Laga, the daughter Courtney shares with her husband, Wesley Laga. These photos serve as a testament to Alice's enduring love and presence in her family's life.
Words from the Heart
Courtney’s caption spoke volumes about the depth of her relationship with her mom. "She was my mother, my heart, and the most loving grandmother to Sky," she wrote. "I was with her for her last breath, and I will carry her love with me always." Those words paint a vivid picture of a daughter who cherished her mother not just as a parent but as a guiding light in her life. It's a reminder of the profound impact one person can have on another.
Read also:Netflix Is Bringing Little House On The Prairie Back To Life
Though no further details about Alice's passing were disclosed, the outpouring of support in the comments section was overwhelming. Friends and fans alike rallied around Courtney during this difficult time, offering words of comfort and solidarity. One commenter wrote, "Sincere condolences to you and family and for all who loves her." Another added, "I’m so sorry. You are such a wonderful daughter to have been there until the end." Such heartfelt messages reflect the deep respect and admiration people have for Courtney and her family.
Support from the Stars
Celebrities also chimed in to express their condolences for the Roker family. Tamron Hall, a close friend and colleague, simply wrote, "Sending our love." Joy Bauer added her voice with, "So much love." Holly Robinson Peete offered her support, saying, "Sending love to you." Rachel Smith shared, "Keeping you in prayer, friend." It's a reminder that even in the public eye, these moments of grief bring people together in a shared humanity.
A Legacy of Love
Al Roker and Alice Bell were married from 1984 to 1994, during which time they adopted Courtney. Al went on to marry Deborah Roberts in 1995, and together they welcomed two more children, Leila and Nicholas. Despite the passage of time and changes in family dynamics, the bond between Courtney and Alice remained unshakable. In a heartfelt segment on Today with Craig Melvin and Dylan Dreyer in June 2020, Al spoke about the humbling experience of adopting Courtney. He recalled the moment they picked her up in western New York, saying, "An hour before, there was a car seat with nobody in it. And then, an hour later, there was a baby." That baby grew up to become a loving daughter and mother herself.
Al faced his own health challenges in late 2022, but amid the uncertainty, he received the joyful news that he would soon become a grandfather. During an appearance on The Kelly Clarkson Show in November 2023, he shared, "I found out while I was in the hospital that my oldest girl, Courtney, was expecting our first grandchild." Sky, now 18 months old, has brought immense joy to the family. Al proudly told TODAY.com in July 2024, "They’re terrific parents and they’ve raised this, so far, incredibly happy baby who’s just very content, and very adventurous when it comes to food and just has a very, very lovely, happy disposition." It's clear that Alice's legacy of love lives on through her granddaughter and the entire Roker family.
