The Wakefield family is once again mourning the loss of a beloved member. Stacy Wakefield, wife of former Boston Red Sox pitcher Tim Wakefield, passed away on Wednesday after battling cancer. This heart-wrenching news came just five months after the passing of Tim, who lost his own battle with brain cancer in October.
The family released a statement, saying “It is with deep sadness that we share that our beloved mother, daughter, sister, niece, and aunt, Stacy, passed away today at her home in Massachusetts.”
They described her as “strong, loving, thoughtful and kind,” and mentioned that she was surrounded by family, friends, and caretakers in her final moments. The loss of Stacy is especially difficult for the family, as they are still grieving the loss of Tim.
The couple was married in 2002 and had two children together. Tim, known for his signature knuckleball, played for the Red Sox for 17 years before retiring in 2011. He was a two-time World Series champion and played a crucial role in breaking the infamous “Curse of the Bambino” in 2004.
Despite his success on the field, Tim was well-known for his humble and down-to-earth nature. This sentiment was echoed for Stacy as well. The family expressed their gratitude for the overwhelming support they have received from friends, fans, and the medical community throughout Stacy’s battle with cancer.
Stacy’s passing comes just days before the start of the 2021 MLB season. An emotional tribute was held for Tim and Stacy at Fenway Park in May of last year, before the start of the delayed season. Tim was surrounded by his wife and family as he wiped away tears during the poignant ceremony.
The Wakefield family also thanked the medical staff who helped Stacy throughout her illness. They said, “We would like to thank all of Stacy’s doctors, nurses and caretakers who helped her from diagnosis to today – we are eternally grateful for your unmatched care and support.”
Tim and Stacy were also actively involved in charitable work, particularly for children’s causes. In 2016, they attended the UNICEF Children’s Champion Award Dinner in Boston and were known for their involvement with the establishment of an athletic field at the Franciscan Hospital for Children in 2007.
The news of Stacy’s passing has sent shockwaves through the sports community, with many offering their condolences and sharing memories of the couple. The Red Sox organization released a statement saying, “Our hearts are heavy today as we mourn the loss of Stacy Wakefield. She was a beloved member of our Red Sox family and will be deeply missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Wakefield family during this difficult time.”
The Red Sox and their fans will surely be thinking of Tim and Stacy and the indelible mark they left on the team and the community. The loss of Tim and Stacy reminds us all of the fleeting nature of life and the importance of cherishing our loved ones while we have them.
