Lara Spencer Shares Heartbreaking Loss of Her Mother at 85
Good Morning America host Lara Spencer announced the passing of her mother, von Seelen, on Friday, February 13, at the age of 85. Spencer revealed the news in a heartfelt Instagram post on Monday, February 16. While an exact cause of death was not shared, von Seelen had previously undergone treatment for cancer after being diagnosed with a glioblastoma brain tumor in 2023.
In her emotional post, Spencer shared a montage of photos celebrating her mother’s life, including moments with GMA colleagues Michael Strahan and Robin Roberts. She described her mother as a woman of “courage, resilience, endless optimism, deep faith, and boundless love for her family.” Spencer reflected on one of her mother’s favorite sayings: “Don’t be sad it’s over, honey—be grateful it happened.”
Spencer noted that her mother passed surrounded by family and her beloved rescue dog, reuniting with Spencer’s father and sister, Pamela. Von Seelen is survived by 12 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
Tributes poured in from GMA colleagues and fellow morning show anchors. Jenna Bush Hager commented, “Sending you love Lara! I know how much you adored her ❤️,” while GMA’s Ginger Zee added, “So sorry Lara and sending you and the entire family so much love and peace ❤️.” Rebecca Jarvis of GMA wrote, “A truly special woman with a transcendent spark. May her memory be a blessing ❤️.”
Spencer concluded her post with a touching message: “We love you always and forever mom.”