Monty Brinson, the former husband of ‘Real Housewives’ star Kim Richards has passed away aged 58, after a long battle with cancer. Brinson was married to the reality star from 1985 to 1988, but the former couple had remained close friends.

Kim RichardsKim Richard’s former husband Monty Brinson has died, aged 58.

Brinson’s death was confirmed by his former brother-in-law Rick Hilton, father of Paris and Nicky Hilton, who announced Brinson's passing on Sunday night in an emotional Instagram post. ‘We have lost Monty Brinson after a brave battle with cancer,’ Hilton wrote. ‘His heart was a big as the moon and he was loved by all he Met. He will be sorely missed. I love You always!’

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Just four days ago Brinson had shared a hopeful post on his Instagram page which read, ‘I just got a sign from God, with all the fight and love inside me he's going to keep me down here for awhile so I can win this battle so I can watch over my loved ones and take care of them, I'm going to be stronger than ever and over come this. Too much love inside me to give up.’

‘I'd like to thank all the the people who have crossed my path you've all touched my heart may everyone have a blessed night and much love to everyone sweet dreams Monty,’ the 58 year old added. Brinson was said to have suffered from lung cancer and in 2014 developed a tumour in his brain.

Despite only being married for three years Brinson and Richards had remained close friends, with the ‘Real Housewives’ star helping care for him during his cancer battle. The have one child together, a daughter named Brooke, who is now 29.

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On Friday Richards took to twitter to thank fans for their support during the difficult time. ‘Hi Everyone...I've missed U all,’ Richards wrote. ‘Thank you for all the Love and Prayers for Monty! Your messages touch my heart’.