Presley Gerber's former girlfriend Lexi Wood shared an emotional tribute to the model following his death at 27, remembering his determination to help others and the friendship that endured beyond their romance.
The Summer House star posted a collection of personal photographs on Instagram on September 22, two days after the death of Cindy Crawford and Rande Gerber's son.
"It's hard to put into words what it means to lose someone who was such a meaningful part of my life for so many years," she wrote. "Through every chapter and every version of our relationship, friendship was always at the core of it." Her photographs captured affectionate moments together, from an embrace on a city street to an evening spent overlooking the ocean.
Lexi Wood's tribute to Presley Gerber
The former girlfriend of Brooklyn Beckham remembered Presley as someone whose warmth and generosity had left a lasting impression on those closest to him.
"Everyone who loved Presley and was loved by him knows he was one of the kindest, most open, loving, and courageous people," she wrote. "He loved so deeply, so purely, was incredibly romantic and thoughtful."
She also reflected on his willingness to speak publicly about his difficulties with mental health and addiction, describing him as "incredibly resilient".
"He fought so hard for his life, and he was brave enough to be open about that fight," she continued. "More than anything, he wanted to use his story to help other people, and he did."
© InstagramThe personal photographs Lexi shared
One close-up photograph showed Lexi wrapping her arms around Presley from behind as they smiled for a selfie. He wore a black hoodie, while she rested her face beside his, with warm evening light falling across them.
Another image captured the pair embracing on a pavement. Presley wore a grey beanie, a dark sweatshirt and pale jeans, while Lexi stood with her arms around his shoulders.
The collection also included three instant photographs laid out on light fabric. In the central picture, Lexi kissed Presley's cheek as he smiled.
Other images offered glimpses of quieter moments beside the sea. One showed Presley looking back towards the camera against an orange sunset, while another captured the pair sitting opposite one another on a blue outdoor daybed, surrounded by notebooks and small personal belongings.
© InstagramPresley Gerber and Lexi Wood's relationship
Presley and Lexi made their relationship public in November 2022, sharing photographs and videos together on Instagram. They also attended events together, including a Malibu celebration honouring Cindy. By December that year, their split had been reported, around a month after they announced their romance publicly. Lexi's latest message made clear that their connection extended beyond that brief period as a couple.
Lexi later joined Summer House for its ninth season in 2025. She announced her departure that June after one season on the Bravo series. In her tribute, however, she focused on the years of friendship she and Presley had shared, and the qualities she wanted people to remember.
© InstagramWhat has been confirmed about Presley's death
Presley died on Sunday, September 20, while staying at a rehabilitation facility. He was Cindy and Rande's only son and the older brother of model and actress Kaia Gerber.
Santa Monica police said officers responded to a report of a possible overdose that morning. His death remained under investigation, with no foul play suspected.
An autopsy was completed on September 21, but the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner deferred the official cause and manner of death pending further testing. An overdose had therefore not been confirmed as the cause of death.
A representative for the family told HELLO!: "The family is asking for privacy during this very difficult and painful time."
© WWD via Getty ImagesThe friendship Lexi said she would always treasure
Presley had spoken openly about his mental health and substance use, including through his Instagram series, Mental Health Mondays. Lexi's message recognised the courage she felt that openness required, alongside the love and thoughtfulness she had experienced personally.
She closed her tribute by expressing gratitude for their time together. "I feel so lucky to have shared so many years of friendship, so many memories, and so much love with him," she wrote. "He will always hold such a special place in my heart, and we will all miss him forever."
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, please contact the SAMHSA helpline at 1-800-662-HELP.
