RHONY Star Jill Zarin's Husband Bobby Dead At 71

The Real Housewives of New York City star's husband has died following a long battle with cancer.

According to Entertainment Tonight, Jill Zarin's husband, Bobby Zarin, passed away at the age of 71 on Saturday, Jan. 13, 2018.

"With the heaviest of hearts, we are devastated to share the news that our beloved Bobby Zarin passed away peacefully today surrounded by family after a courageous battle with cancer," read a statement from the Zarin family, confirming the sad news on Jill's website. "There are no words to describe how heartbroken we are. Thank you, everyone, for all your love and support during this difficult time."

While Bobby beat his battle with thyroid cancer in 2009 after undergoing radioactive iodine treatment and having his thyroid removed, the cancer had returned and spread to his lungs in 2013 and to his brain in 2016. The following year, he underwent chemotherapy treatment. 

At the time, Jill, 54, was hopeful about what she called a "miraculous" recovery. "It's been the most emotional time in our lives and couldn't have gotten to where we are without help from many," she shared on Instagram, captioning a photo of the couple out to dinner. "I wake up everyday now so grateful to see Bobby getting stronger."

Bobby, a real estate developer and the founder of Zarin Fabrics, and Jill had celebrated their 18th anniversary just one week before his death. The reality TV star took to Instagram to commemorate the occasion. "Happy 18th! Anniversary to the love of my life Bobby Zarin. Bobby is the most perfect man I know," she lovingly captioned a snapshot of the married pair. "He never loses anything, never forgets anything and when I think he is wrong...he is always right! I will post some photos over the last 20 years...truly a Love Story. Enjoy!"

She then shared a sweet collage of photos of the two, writing, "Happy Anniversary to my Bobby Zarin...a lifetime of memories."

Bobby is survived by his wife, Jill, as well as three children from a previous relationship — Jonathan, David, and Jennifer — and his stepdaughter, Ally.

Our thoughts are with the Zarin family during this difficult time.