Award-winning chef Naomi Pomeroy has passed away at the age of 49. Friends confirmed that the former Top Chef Masters contestant had died. She was tubing with two others on the Willamette River near Portland, Oregon. Initially, her identity was unknown. A few days later, it was discovered to be Naomi.
The accident occurred because Naomi was not wearing a life jacket when the three connected tubes hit a submerged tree, sending her underwater, where she never resurfaced. On Saturday at 8:25 PM, police recovered Naomi’s body from the water. It was revealed that a strong current had delayed the discovery of her body.
The two other individuals, including Naomi’s husband, Kyle Linden Webster, survived the accident.
“SO SAD TO HEAR THIS”
Naomi’s final Instagram post, promoting her latest culinary project called Garden Party, has been flooded with farewell messages from fans. On July 1, she shared a black-and-white image of a group dining together. One commenter wrote, “Wow, I don’t know what to say.
Naomi, take care of yourself. This is so sad to hear. I’m speechless,” one person wrote.
“We need to cherish every moment of our short lives because it is so brief. She seemed to live that way, especially in recent times,” another commented.
“I can’t comprehend this. You were an angel, a legend, and a reason to live. Rest in peace,” said someone else.
“You will be missed!” added a fourth person.
“This truly shocks me. Love to the family,” wrote another.
“Sending love from afar to your family. I am deeply sorry to hear of your passing. You were so brilliant,” another fan shared.
“WHAT A LOSS!” expressed someone else.
As people learned the tragic news, Congressman Earl Blumenauer released a statement. He had worked with Naomi to support small restaurants during the pandemic.
“What a loss,” he said. “Naomi was a wonderful person, as well as an exceptional chef and businesswoman.
“Her influence reached far beyond Portland; she helped us become leaders and gain recognition for our outstanding cuisine.
“She will be deeply missed
