James Van Der Beek's ex-wife, Heather McComb, pens poignant tribute

James Van Der Beek's ex-wife, Heather McComb, has honoured her "special connection" with the late Dawson's Creek star in a touching tribute.

McComb and Van Der Beek, who died Wednesday at age 48 after a battle with colorectal cancer, were married from 2003 to 2009.

"Thank you for everyone who has reached out. I appreciate and feel all your love. I am heartbroken over the loss of beloved James," the actor wrote on Instagram on Thursday.

"I am especially heartbroken for his incredible wife Kimberly, his beautiful children and his amazing family and friends who I know he loved deeply," McComb continued.

The American Gigolo actor published the tribute alongside a black-and-white photo of the pair on her 21st birthday, before Dawson's Creek premiered.

"This is how I will always see James innocent, kind and pure of heart. What a journey we shared over the years. I sit here in immense gratitude for the special connection, friendship and love that James and I shared that has endured through decades."

McComb added that she will "treasure" the last words the pair exchanged.

"James was a beautiful soul filled with so much light, love, talent, humour, depth, sensitivity, knowledge and a deep love of God that shined through him. He shined so bright yet was so humble and human. Always searching, always growing, always going deeper, always chasing things outside his comfort zone."

Van Der Beek married his wife Kimberly in 2010 before welcoming six children who are now aged 15 to four.