It’s been nine years since actress Natasha Richardson‘s tragic death at age 45 following a skiing accident, but in an exclusive new interview with Closer Weekly, Joely Richardson shares that she feels her sister’s spirit is still with her. “She will be a part of me until the day that I check out,” Joely, 53, tells Closer. “Weirdly, we’re still in it together.”

liam and natasha getty images

Natasha and Liam.

Joely has helped Natasha’s widower, Liam Neeson, raise the couple’s two sons, Michael Neeson, 22, and Daniel Neeson, 21. “The years were very, very difficult when she left us,” says Joely. “But we’ve all looked after each other and stepped up to the plate. No one could fill her shoes, of course, but we’re trying to be the best people we can.” Joey confides to Closer, “I believe all our loved ones are around us.”

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