Terri Irwin says grief 'still walks with her' 20 years after husband Steve's death

Terri Irwin is reflecting on the loss of her husband, Steve Irwin, 20 years after his tragic death.

On the anniversary of his passing, Terri, 62, shared an emotional message on Instagram, explaining how she has coped over the past two decades. 

"After 20 years, grief still walks with me like my shadow," wrote Terri, who, with her children, Bindi, 28, and Robert, 22, continues to carry out her husband's legacy at Australia Zoo and wildlife conservation work.

"With the passing of time I have gained more perspective and understanding," she added.

Steve Irwin died in September 2006 following an accident while filming a documentary in Australia. He was 44 years old at the time.

In her post, Terri also shared memories of the final weeks she and her children spent together with Steve before his passing.

"We were together as a family, on our crocodile research expedition, for what was to be our final six weeks together. Ours was to be a long and sweet goodbye," she remembered in her post.

"Steve spent time with Bindi and Robert building swings and climbing trees. We all slowed down. Time slowed down. I believe that all of us, every one of us, gets to say goodbye. We just may not know that we’re saying it. Hold every moment dear with the ones you love. Until we meet again."

Terri has not remarried since Steve's death and has previously said she does not plan to pursue another relationship, despite past rumours linking her to several public figures over the years, which she has denied.

Their children, Bindi and Robert, also shared heartfelt tributes, with Bindi writing, "20 years ago, today, the world lost the most passionate and dedicated wildlife conservationist. Our family lost our superhero."

She continued, "My mum lost the love of her life; my brother and I lost the greatest dad. Grief never truly leaves us; we walk alongside it every day. Where there is enormous grief, there is even greater love."

Robert shared a video tribute thanking his father for teaching him important life lessons about compassion and living with purpose.

"Thank you Dad, for showing me and the entire world what it is to truly live. To lead with empathy, to treat every living being how you’d wish to be treated, and to be passionate in everything you do. Your mission and light lives on always."