A cancer researcher and fitness advocate who spoke openly about her “crippling” anxiety and quit social media to prioritize her mental health has died, her boyfriend has announced.
Stephanie Buttermore, a former bodybuilder who used her platform to promote fitness and wellness, died less than two weeks after her 36th birthday, on Feb. 25.
Her partner of 10 years, Jeff Nippard, shared a heartbreaking statement about the heartbreaking announcement on Instagram on Friday.
“It is with great sadness that we share the sudden passing of Jeff’s fiancée and partner of ten years, Stephanie,” Nippard’s team wrote. “As many of you know, Stephanie meant the world to Jeff.
“She will be remembered for her warmth and compassion, her love for her family, and her PhD research on ovarian cancer.”
Nippard, a bodybuilder, did not disclose the cause of death and asked for privacy. The couple got married in 2022 after Nippard “went in [her] DMs” six years ago, according to an Instagram post about their engagement.
Buttermore, who was based in Florida, earned a PhD in Biomedical Sciences, Pathology, and Cell Biology.
He had over 525,000 Instagram followers and almost 1.2 million YouTube subscribers. She shares workout routines, nutrition tips, and tips for women on their health and wellness journey.
The YouTuber shared his first video nine years ago, but withdrew from social media in 2024.
His last post on Instagram was in May 2024, where he updated his followers on the big things he took from being offline and talked about why he went “MIA.”
“My mental health has been the best it’s ever been, but I’ll give you some details,” he told his fans candidly.
“I no longer struggle with anxiety at all. It was almost crippling a few years ago to the point where I felt like I couldn’t breathe or leave my house.”
His honesty was heard by fans who praised him for stepping out of the limelight despite his success.
Buttermore’s fame has flooded social media.
“Thank you for inspiring me and so many other women with all you do in travel and research. You are such an important presence in the fitness world. RIP,” one woman wrote on Instagram under Buttermore’s last post.
“Stephanie. I’m in tears. She helped me overcome my eating disorder in college and high school. I’m devastated. Thank you for everything,” said another, expressing her grief.
“Rest in peace Stephanie, my heart aches for you and Jeff,” said a sad fan. “You inspired so many. Your intelligence, charisma and dedication inspired hundreds of thousands, if not millions of people. A bright light was quickly extinguished.”
