For over two decades, Tabatha Coffey kept a significant part of her life hidden from the public eye. The celebrated hairstylist and former Bravo host, known for her no-nonsense attitude and impeccable style, guarded a precious secret: her long-term partner, Diane Keeler. Now, Coffey is breaking her silence, opening up about the love of her life and the heartbreaking journey they shared in Keeler’s final years.
Coffey and Keeler’s love story began in 1997 when Keeler, a New York City native more than a decade older than Coffey, walked into the salon where Coffey worked in New Jersey. It was a fateful encounter that sparked an instant connection, with Keeler’s warmth and patience captivating Coffey from the start. Their bond only grew stronger as they built a life together, savoring the simple joys of home on the East Coast and occasional travels.
A Love Story Kept Close to the Heart
While Coffey’s career thrust her into the spotlight, she and Keeler consciously chose to keep their relationship private. Keeler, content with a quieter existence, had little interest in the events and travel that came with Coffey’s fame. Coffey, too, was sensitive to the scrutiny her reality persona and identity as an out gay woman could bring.
“My life with Diane was precious, a rare commodity that I kept very close and quiet,” Coffey reflects. Their love was a sanctuary, a haven they cherished away from prying eyes.
A Devastating Diagnosis and a Caregiver’s Journey
In 2013, Coffey noticed Keeler beginning to struggle with her speech, a concerning sign that something was amiss. The following year, they received the devastating news: Keeler had been diagnosed with stage 4 glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer. What followed was a harrowing battle, with Keeler enduring surgery, chemotherapy, and rehabilitation.
For a brief moment in 2017, it seemed they had weathered the storm, but their respite was short-lived. Keeler suffered a major stroke, robbing her of much of her mobility and speech, and requiring round-the-clock care at home.
A Caregiver’s Unwavering Devotion
Coffey stepped up, becoming Keeler’s cheerleader and advocate, doing everything in her power to ensure her partner’s well-being. It was a role she embraced wholeheartedly, even as the emotional toll weighed heavily on her shoulders. Keeler’s health challenges only compounded when she was later diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer.
Through it all, Coffey remained steadfast, a pillar of strength and love for the woman who had captured her heart so many years ago.
A Heartbreaking Farewell and a New Beginning
In June 2022, at the age of 67, Keeler passed away at home, surrounded by loved ones as Coffey played her favorite music. It was a heartbreaking farewell, but one that marked the end of a remarkable journey – a testament to the depth of their love and Coffey’s unwavering commitment.
Now, Coffey finds herself embarking on a new chapter, discovering who she is after being transformed by Keeler’s life and loss. With a renewed sense of purpose, she hopes to support others navigating the challenges of caregiving, reminding them that they are not alone. “We are all going to join the club,” she says, her voice carrying the weight of hard-earned wisdom and compassion.
