Naya Rivera's ex Ryan Dorsey honours the actress 5 years after her death: "Still in disbelief"

Ryan Dorsey took to Instagram to pen a poem in honour of his ex wife Naya Rivera's memory who would have turned 38-years old on January 12th. The post included messages about the former couple's 9-year old son, Josey Hollis Dorsey, and dogs Emmy and Lucy. 

The actor started by wishing Rivera "Happy Heavenly Birthday" and went on to express his disbelief and grief at her passing, after she tragically died in a drowning incident in 2020. "I shake my head often still in disbelief. They say time heals all, but all is not grief." penned Dorsey. 

He continued stating that he “doing the best I can for our JoJo Binx,” referring to their 9-year-old son. Attached to the message was a picture of the couple who got married in 2014 and welcomed their son soon after, before getting divorced in 2018. 

The poem concluded with a nod to the couple's pet dogs Emmy and Lucy and a reminder to cherish loved ones. "So give [dogs] Emmy and Lucy one good rub, And if you’re reading this, Be kind to the one’s you love, You’ll never know when you give your last hug. 🤍.”

Rivera, best known for playing Santana Lopez on Glee, was reported missing in July 2020 after a boat that she had rented while at California's Lake Piru with her son, was discovered with only the child aboard it. Her body was discovered on July 13th and accidental downing was deemed the cause of death.

The actress, who was laid to rest on July 24th, was able to save her son before she passed away. 

Although Rivera and Dorsey had a volatile relationship, the actor continues to remember his former wife by reminiscing on the memories they shared with their son.