DMX's Ex-wife Tashera Marks Daughter Praise's 16th B-Day with a Heartfelt Tribute & Photo Montage

More than a week after rapper DMX passed away, his ex-wife Tashera Simmons shared a heartfelt birthday tribute for their daughter, Praise, on Instagram.

Acclaimed actress Tashera Simmons recently expressed on Instagram her love for her daughter Praise Mary Ella, whom she shares with her ex-husband, the later rapper DMX.

Simmons shared on the online platform a sweet video montage of Praise in honor of her 16th birthday on April 18. The girl's resemblance with her father is unmistakable.

The video clip showed Praise's growing years, from being a little girl to a beautiful teenager. DMX, whose real name is Earl Simmons, witnessed her transformation. Simmons wrote:

"Life is so short. Your father was so proud of you. And would have wanted you to enjoy your day..."

The "Starter Wives Confidential" star added that she and the late rapper were both proud of Praise, who embodies beautiful traits, including being thoughtful, kind, and respectful.

The 50-year-old actress also shared her wish for Praise to stay resilient and to stay true to her life's purpose amidst "dark times." She also encouraged her daughter to continue to rise above life's challenges.

Simmons ended her post by encouraging her followers to love the people closest to them. She reminded them to embrace God-given beautiful moments while on earth.

Besides being a father, she considered him her best friend, a spiritual partner, and a mentor.

The ability to toughen up amidst unfortunate circumstances is something Simmons has learned as she grew older. Reflecting on her life during her recent birthday, she said she has experienced hurt, pain, and triumph.

As much as she wanted to celebrate her birthday last April 10, Tashera chose to pay a loving tribute to her ex-husband instead. DMX, who lived a life marred by abuse and addiction, passed away on April 9 after suffering from cardiac arrest due to drug overdose.

The "Ruff Rhyder's Anthem" hitmaker and Simmons were married from 1999 until 2004. They became estranged in 2005 and their divorce was finalized in 2010.

Their breaking point happened when DMX yelled at her in VH1's "Couple's Therapy" episode. Reflecting on her divorce later, Simmons wrote a book in 2013 titled "You Think You Know, You Have No Idea."

Although their marriage did not work out, Simmons remained friends with DMX. Besides being a father to their kids, she considered him her best friend, a spiritual partner, and a mentor.

Aside from Praise, Simmons and the veteran rapper share three other children - Xavier, Shawn, and Tocoma. DMX has another daughter named Sasha, who also penned a message addressed to the rapper.