Stacy Wakefield, wife of late Red Sox pitcher, dies at age 53

Stacy Wakefield, the widow of late Red Sox pitcher Tim Wakefield, died on Wednesday. She was 53.

“It is with deep sadness that we share that our beloved mother, daughter, sister, niece, and aunt, Stacy, passed away today at her home in Massachusetts,” the Wakefield family said in a statement released by the Red Sox. “She was surrounded by her family and dear friends, as well as her wonderful caretakers and nurses. The loss is unimaginable, especially in the wake of losing Tim just under five months ago. Our hearts are beyond broken.”

Ms. Wakefield, formerly Stacy Stover, had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and received treatment throughout 2023, prior to Mr. Wakefield’s diagnosis of brain cancer. She spoke movingly at a memorial service for Mr. Wakefield at Fenway Park last October.

The two met at a charity event and worked hand-in-hand in support of numerous charitable causes over more than 20 years of marriage, including their Wakefield Warriors program, as well as The Jimmy Fund.

“We will remember Stacy as a strong, loving, thoughtful and kind person, who was as down-to-earth as they come,” the family statement said. “We feel so lucky to have had her in our lives, and we take comfort in the fact that she will be reunited with Tim, the love of her life.

“We would like to thank all of Stacy’s doctors, nurses, and caretakers who helped her from diagnosis to today — we are eternally grateful for your unmatched care and support. And to all of you who have sent well wishes over these last several months, we truly appreciate your kindness.

“We kindly ask for privacy at this time as we try to process this profound loss.”

Ms. Wakefield is survived by two children, Trevor and Brianna.

“Tough day. Something that obviously we know a lot about it. It’s sad. They were so big for us, not only on the field but off the field. She was very strong,” Red Sox manager Alex Cora said following his team’s spring training game against the Nationals in West Palm Beach, Fla. “She was there for him and now we’re here for the kids. That’s the most important thing. They were great.”