Ruth had initially confirmed: “My lovely Sis Julia has sadly died after a very long illness. My heart is completely broken.
“She was the kindest and most gentle soul and I will miss her forever. As I am sure you will appreciate I need to take time to grieve with my family. Thank you for your understanding.”
Lucy, who is believed to live close to the star and her husband Eamonn Holmes, wrote back: “A truly kind loving and beautiful person. Julia will be hugely missed.”
Her fellow Strictly Come Dancing star Gemma Atkinson continued: “I’m so sorry Ruth. Sending lots of love to you all.”
Great British Bake Off winner Candice Brown wrote: “So sorry for your loss Ruth. Thinking of you and sending love and thoughts xxx.”
Amanda Holden replied with a heart emoji, while Kate Thornton stated: “Oh Ruth, I’m so sorry to hear that. Thoughts are with you and sending all my love x.”
Lisa Snowdon went on: “Oh Ruth. I’m so so sorry for your loss. Truly heartbreaking, sending you so much love and strength at this incredibly sad time. Hugs when I see you next.”
Actress Martine McCutcheon said she was thinking of her and posted: “So sorry to hear of loss. Sending you so much love.”
Melanie Sykes also replied: “Oh Ruth I’m so sorry x sending you so much love xxxxxxxx xxxxxxx.”
While Gaby Roslin tweets: “Oh Ruth. I am so sorry. Utterly heartbreaking. Sending you so much love and my deepest sympathies. If I can do anything please shout.”
Ruth’s Loose Women colleague Andrea McLean added: “I’m so sorry Ruth. Sending you love xx.”
It comes after The Sun reported that the star had cancelled all TV appearances until further notice.
A source told them: “Ruth is utterly heartbroken and devastated to have found out her beloved sister Julia has died.
“She adored Julia. They were very close – speaking all the time on the phone and enjoying girls’ days out.
“… Eammon and son Jack are comforting her at home but Ruth is in deep shock. It’s absolutely heartbreaking for the whole family.”
Homes Under The Hammer airs weekdays at 10am on BBC One, while This Morning continues today at 10.30am on ITV.