She made a difference to so many lives: Tom Hanks pays tribute to his mum

Tom Hanks has shared a photo of his mother in an emotional tribute following her death aged 84. The Oscar-winner posted the portrait of Janet Marylyn Frager on Instagram alongside the caption: “This beauty? My mom. She was the difference in many lives. Many lives. We say goodbye to her today. Safe crossing.” The Forrest Gump star, who celebrated his 60th birthday on Saturday, later posted another photo on Twitter of the State Theatre in Red Bluff, California. “Saw many movies here with our Mom,” he wrote. “Thanks for all who came to see her off. Hanx.”

This wonderful lady gave birth to my husband, and three other children. Thank you for bringing my love into the world. She is at peace now

Tom Hanks’ wife, actress Rita Wilson

Hanks broke down in tears on British radio show Desert Island Discs in May as he discussed his nomadic childhood after he went to live with his father, Amos, following his parents’ divorce. He and his siblings, Larry and Sarah, went to live with their father following the divorce, staying in ten houses in five years, while their younger brother Jim stayed with their mother. Amos Hanks died in 1992.

And we can thank her for all the lives made better by your peerless humanity. Millions and millions. She raised a fabulous son.

One fan’s social media response

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