Monty Brinson, Kim Richards’ Ex-Husband, Has Died Aged 53

Kim Richards‘ former husband and longtime friend Monty Brinson has died following a battle with lung cancer. He was 53.

Monty Brinson Dies

Rick Hilton, Brinson’s former brother-in-law, announced his passing on Instagram Sunday night.

“We have lost Monty Brinson after a brave battle of cancer,” Hilton wrote. “His heart was as big as the moon and he was loved by all he met. He will be sorely missed. I love YOU always.”

A photo posted by Rick Hilton (@rickhilton7) on Jan 24, 2016 at 6:30pm PST

Brinson posted his last message on Instagram just a few days ago, asking friends to send him memories they shared with him. “Today I know a lot of people that follow me my wish that you would send a short message of a time we spent together that you will not forget about us and our friendship,” he wrote.

A photo posted by Monty Brinson (@montybrinson) on Jan 21, 2016 at 1:10pm PST

The day prior to collecting memories from loved ones, Brinson had seemed more optimistic, writing that he thought that he had a lot more time left. “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,” he wrote.

“I’m going to be stronger than ever and over come this,” Brinson added. “Too much love inside me to give up #embrace #love #daughters #exeivrs #faith #life #thankful #blessed #tomorrow #family #heaven #god #friends #strangers and I’d 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.”

A video posted by Monty Brinson (@montybrinson) on Jan 20, 2016 at 11:23pm PST

Brinson was married to Richards for just three years – from 1985 to 1988. The two, who have 29-year-old daughter Brooke together, remained close friends following the split. Towards the end of his life, he was living with the former Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star, who had taken over the role of primary caretaker as he suffered from cancer.