Alexa Massaro (left) and mom Ashley Massaro.Photo: Ashley Massro/ Instagram
FormerWWE starandSurvivorcontestantAshley Massarowas known for her brash public persona, but she had a soft spot: her 18-year-old daughter, Alexa Massaro.
After her momdied suddenly this week at 39 in New York, Alexa posted a tribute to her on Instagram.
Along with a photo of them together on the red carpet, Alexa wrote on her Instagram Story, “i wish i could have gotten more recent pictures.”
She added, in a rush of grief, “i love you mommy i want to wake up in your arms more than anything i want to give u a big hug please come back this cant be real.”
In 2007, during her stint with the WWE, Ashley appeared onSurvivor: China, the 15th season of the long-running reality show. There she battled physical illness in her first six days and was the second contestant voted out of the game.
But friends tell PEOPLE that there was another side to her, which lit up when she talked about Alexa. Just 20 when she was pregnant, Ashley had a tight bond with her only child.
Last July, Ashley posed a picture of herself with Alexa to celebrate her daughter’s birthday.
“I truly love her more than anything or anyone in this world!” Ashley continued. “Happy early birthday bug! You’ll always be my little girl!”
Ashley Massaro (left) with daughter Alexa.Alexa Maassaro/ Instagram
RELATED VIDEO: Former WWE Star Matt Cappotelli Dies After Battle with Cancer: He ‘Went Home to Be with Jesus’
On Wednesday, a day before her death,Ashley tweetedthat she had just responded to “a ton of fanmail so you guys should be receiving them soon! Love ya punx.”
Her cause of death has not been disclosed but it is not being classified as a criminal case, according to police.
As authorities continue to investigate, those who knew Ashley are in mourning.
“She is so much more than her image,” Leslie Nease, a fellowSurvivorcontestant and friend, told PEOPLE. “After we were both voted off we spent hours in deep conversation for several days. She had a very soft and kind side. I am so thankful I was able to see that and know her that way.”
On her Instagram Story Alexa posted another photo of her and her mom, writing, “please god this cant be it.”
source: people.com
