“Despite enduring immense heartache and loss, Anna Nicole Smith remained a devoted and nurturing mother,” Stern reflected during an interview on Larry King Live following the tragic passing of her son, Daniel. He emphasized how her love and attention for her children never wavered, even as she faced the overwhelming pain of losing a loved one. Their commitment ceremony in the Bahamas, though not legally binding, symbolized a deep connection that was evident in their shared experiences and challenges as a family.

During the emotional funeral, Birkhead recounted a heart-wrenching moment: “She attempted to climb into the casket.” This powerful statement underscores the profound bond between Anna and Daniel, illustrating that his loss left her in an emotionally fragile state. Birkhead expressed his concern for Anna’s ability to care for their daughter, given the depth of her grief and the close-knit relationship she had with Daniel. It was clear that Anna was struggling to cope with such a devastating loss.

Following Smith’s untimely death just five months later, Paul Marciano shared his thoughts, stating, “In my opinion, she could not endure the loss of her beloved son, Daniel, who was the center of her universe.” This poignant remark highlights the significant impact Daniel had on Anna’s life, suggesting that the emotional toll of his death was simply too much for her to bear, ultimately leading to her own tragic demise.

Smith never publicly refuted the claim that Stern was Dannielynn’s father, leaving the determination of paternity to a legal process involving DNA testing. In the aftermath of Anna Nicole’s passing, both Stern and Birkhead engaged in a contentious custody battle over their daughter. This situation was further complicated by the emergence of several other men, including Zsa Zsa Gabor‘s husband, Prince Frederic von Anhalt, who also claimed to be the father, adding layers of complexity to an already tumultuous situation.

The conflict over Anna’s final resting place added to the turmoil during this trying period. Stern sought to make decisions regarding her burial, while Anna’s estranged mother, Virgie Arthur, expressed a desire to transport her daughter’s remains back to Texas. Ultimately, Stern prevailed in this dispute, and Anna was laid to rest beside her son Daniel in the serene surroundings of the Bahamas, symbolizing their eternal bond in life and death.