George Michael died one year ago on Christmas Day.
The “Last Christmas” singer’s family shared a message with fans in Michael’s memory, referring to him by his nickname, Yog.
RELATED: Adam Lambert Honours George Michael With Singing Of ‘Faith’
“This year has been a series of new and tough challenges for those of us close and loyal to Yog, not least of which was steeling ourselves this month, to hear ‘Last Christmas’ and ‘December Song’ streaming out of shops, cars, and radios, as it has done for decades, knowing he’s no longer here with us, missing him,” the statement read.
“This Christmas will be hard without him, but we know that we are not alone in our mourning the anniversary of his loss, and that the sadness of our wider family, and true friends, is shared by many of you.”
“Yog, who loved Christmas, and always hoped it would snow, would want each of you that admired and loved him, (yes—he knows you did!!) to take a moment, raise a glass, enjoy his music and think of him fondly, making sure to enjoy your time with, and appreciate your family and friends.”
“As we all know Christmas is not always easy, life isn’t perfect, and families are complicated,” the statement added. “So if you can, in his memory this year, take a moment and a deep breath and say those ‘I Love You’s’ out loud. We all think there is time, don’t we? – but, just maybe, it’s later than you think.”
Michael’s partner, Fadi Fawaz, also shared a tribute to the late star on Instagram featuring both of their faces superimposed on one another.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BdHYsYljZ-W/
RELATED: Mariah Carey Delivers ‘Heartfelt Tribute’ To George Michael With Cover Of ‘One More Try’
Michael’s fans also left tributes for him outside his former home in London to pay their respects on the anniversary of his death.
