Hugh Hefner's widow Crystal has spoken of her "heartbreak" as she broke her silence following he sad news of his death aged 91.
Hugh Hefner and Crystal
The 31-year-old model - who was married to the 'Playboy' magazine mogul from December 2012 until he passed away on Wednesday (27.09.17) - has admitted she has struggled to thank everyone for their kind words over the last few days.
In a statement made to E! News, Crystal said: "I haven't been able to bring myself to write most people back to thank them for their condolences. I am heartbroken. I am still in disbelief."
Crystal confirmed Hugh was laid to rest on Saturday (30.09.17), and added he is now "in the place he was always certain he wanted to spend eternity".
Continuing her statement, she said: "He was an American hero. A pioneer. A kind and humble soul who opened up his life and home to the world. I felt how much he loved me. I loved him so much.
"I am so grateful. He gave me life. He gave me direction. He taught me kindness. I will feel eternally grateful to have been by his side, holding his hand, and telling him how much I love him."
The family and close friends of the Playboy magazine founder remembered him fondly in an intimate ceremony held at Los Angeles' Westwood Village Memorial Park at noon.
Hefner's four children, his wife Crystal Harris and some of the closest staff were there to pay tribute to the late media personality, TMZ reports.
Hugh's son Cooper Hefner, who is the chief creative officer of Playboy Enterprises, praised his father for living an "exceptional and impactful life".
He said in a statement: "My father lived an exceptional and impactful life as a media and cultural pioneer and a leading voice behind some of the most significant social and cultural movements of our time in advocating free speech, civil rights and sexual freedom."
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