Mick Foley, renowned as one of the greats in professional wrestling, is facing a profound personal loss following the death of his mother, Beverly Foley. She passed away after a long struggle with dementia, a condition that affects millions of families worldwide. In a heartfelt tribute shared on social media, Foley expressed his sorrow and celebrated the remarkable life of his mother.
Foley revealed that she was a private individual who preferred not to have a funeral or obituary, which motivated him to write a tribute to raise awareness about dementia and support others facing similar challenges. “It is with a heavy heart I report the passing of my mother, following a lengthy battle with dementia,” he wrote, reflecting on her strength as an independent woman who overcame polio in her youth, became the first in her family to attend college, and instilled a strong belief in her children’s potential.
In his tribute, Foley recounted how his mother’s influence shaped his life and career. Born during the Great Depression, Beverly Foley displayed remarkable determination by eventually earning two master’s degrees, overcoming societal expectations of her time. She instilled in her children a love of learning and creativity, encouraging them to pursue their dreams.
“She loved reading to me and my brother, sparked my imagination and nurtured my own love for reading and writing,” Foley shared. He credited her unwavering support as essential to his success as a writer, noting that her encouragement allowed him to believe in his abilities. Notably, she carried his published book, “Have a Nice Day,” everywhere she went, with pride.
As he navigates this personal tragedy, Foley emphasized the importance of cherishing moments with family and expressing love openly. He also expressed hope for future advancements in dementia research, reminding others to appreciate their loved ones while they can. Through his tribute, Foley not only honors his mother’s legacy but also fosters awareness about the impact of dementia on families, encouraging a collective solidarity in the face of such challenges.