LOVE Island’s Alex Bowen shared the devastating news that his best friend Joe Richards had passed away on social media yesterday evening.
TV personality Alex Bowen, took to Instagram to share a touching tribute to his close friend with a series of images and a heartfelt message, in the wake of the sudden death.
Alex Bowen devastated by sudden death of friend Joe Richards
Alex posted a series of memories he shared with his close friend
The former Love Island star wrote: “Dunno what im feeling right now but I know that you made my life better, been there for me since the day we met I can’t believe your not gonna see my son grow up but im gonna make sure he knows who his uncle STIG was.
“I feel like I’ve lost a massive part of my life but I know im gonna celebrate your life every single day and your gonna live on in all of us.
“I just know you’re resting with you’re nan up there right now and that’s all you wanted.
“I LOVE YOU BROTHER!”
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The images of the pair showcased precious moments including Alex embracing his friend Joe and the two wearing suits at Alex’s wedding.
Alex’s wife and fellow former Islander, Olivia Bowen, joined the comments to write: “Love you so much. 
”, in support of her husband’s loss.
Fellow star-studded friends and fellow ex-islanders also flocked to the comments to share their condolences, including former king of the villa, Nathan Massey, who wrote: “
This is devastating bro ! Made me feel so welcome at your stag
rip pal x”
Former Geordie Shore star, Vicky Pattison, also wrote her condolences, commenting: “I’m so sorry Al 
”
The personal trainer, 28, recently welcomed his first child with wife Olivia this Summer, with the pair posting a snap cradling their new son on Instagram.
Olivia wrote: “Abel Jacob Bowen. You are everything. 10/06/22.”
Alex also shared his own announcement, writing: “Abel Jacob Bowen, but you can call him AJ… The day our lives changed for the better.”
The pair used social media to break their pregnancy news over the New Year, with Alex posting a picture of a series of baby related polaroids including an image of him kissing Olivia’s growing bump.
Alongside the image he wrote: “This year we get to meet Baby Bowen.”
Olivia Bowen and Joe Richards in a throwback snap posted by Alex Bowen
Olivia and Joe in a photo posted by Alex, in tribute of Joe’s sudden death
