Kirstie Alley, a beloved actress known for her incredible talent and captivating performances, passed away on December 5 after bravely fighting colon cancer. On what would have been her 72nd birthday, Kirstie’s daughter, Lillie Price Stevenson, took to Instagram to express her love and admiration for her late mother.

A Touching Tribute on Instagram

Lillie Price Stevenson, 28, shared a heartfelt tribute to her mother, Kirstie Alley, on the social media platform Instagram. Alongside four beautiful black and white photos, Lillie wrote, “Happy birthday mama ❤️ Wish you were here.” The pictures capture Kirstie in various poses, showcasing her timeless beauty and vibrant spirit.

Cherished Memories with Kirstie Alley

In the nostalgic photographs, Kirstie Alley can be seen wearing a sleeveless top, radiating joy and positivity. One snapshot captures her gazing directly at the camera with her hair flowing freely, while in others, she elegantly sports a low ponytail. The final image shows Kirstie looking into the distance, a gentle smile gracing her face. These pictures serve as a reminder of the precious moments shared between a loving mother and her devoted daughter, Lillie Price Stevenson.

Sharing the Sad News

Lillie Price Stevenson, along with her brother, William True Stevenson, announced their mother’s passing at the age of 71 in a heartfelt statement last month. They revealed that Kirstie had discovered her battle with colon cancer only recently and had been undergoing treatment at Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, Florida. Despite the heartbreaking loss, Lillie and William found solace in knowing their mother had fought with unwavering strength, leaving behind a legacy of boundless joy and love.

A Remarkable Woman and Loving Mother

Kirstie Alley was not only an iconic presence on screen but also an exceptional mother and grandmother. Her zest for life, dedication to her children, grandchildren, and beloved animals, as well as her unyielding passion for creativity, made her an extraordinary individual. Her genuine love for life continues to inspire those who knew her, encouraging them to embrace every moment and live life to the fullest.

Life Beyond the Limelight

While Lillie Price Stevenson and William True Stevenson largely maintained a private life away from the public eye, they did accompany their mother to some of her movie premieres over the years. Lillie joined Kirstie for the premiere of “Sydney White” in 2007 and a charity gala in 2011. These rare appearances together showcased the close bond shared within their family.

A Celebration of Love and Support

In the wake of Kirstie Alley’s passing, numerous stars took to social media to celebrate her life and honor her memory. John Travolta, a dear friend and former co-star, expressed his deep affection, saying, “Kirstie was one of the most special relationships I’ve ever had. I love you, Kirstie.” Alongside a photo of the late star, he added, “I know we will see each other again.”

Kelsey Grammer, Ted Danson, and Rhea Perlman, Kirstie’s co-stars from the beloved series “Cheers,” also shared heartfelt statements with PEOPLE. They fondly remembered their friend’s compassion, golden heart, and infectious joy for life. Grammer expressed his love, saying, “I always believed grief for a public figure is a private matter, but I will say I loved her.” Danson wrote about a poignant episode of “Cheers” he recently watched, emphasizing Kirstie’s brilliant talent and the laughter she brought to his life. Perlman cherished Kirstie’s uniqueness, emphasizing the treasured memories they shared and the immeasurable impact Kirstie had on her life and the lives of others.

Kirstie Alley’s Enduring Legacy

Kirstie Alley’s legacy as an actress and remarkable individual will forever hold a special place in the hearts of her fans and loved ones. Her infectious spirit, unwavering love for her family, and immense talent will continue to inspire and uplift those who remember her. Though she may be physically absent, her presence lives on through the cherished memories and the everlasting impact she had on the world.

Keeping Her Memory Alive

Lillie Price Stevenson and William True Stevenson will undoubtedly continue to honor their mother’s memory and carry forward her legacy. Kirstie Alley’s indomitable spirit and genuine love for life will forever serve as a guiding light, reminding us all to embrace each day with gratitude and to cherish the bonds we share with those we love.