Hugh Hefner's 31-year-old widow, Crystal Hefner, mourns her late husband: 'He saved my life'

Charley Gallay / Stringer

31-year-old widow Crystal Hefner says she is "still in disbelief" after the loss of her husband, Playboy founder Hugh Hefner, who passed away at 91 on September 27.

"We laid him to rest Saturday. He is in the place he was always certain he wanted to spend eternity," she told US Weekly Monday.

Crystal Hefner expressed her love and gratitude to her husband who she called an "American hero," and a "pioneer." 

The pair tied the knot on New Year's Even in 2012. She was the media mogul's third wife.

"I felt how much he loved me. I loved him so much. I am so grateful," she said. She also said Hugh had given her "direction," and "saved" her life.

Hugh Hefner reportedly left Crystal 

Crystal Hefner thanked everyone for their condolences and said that she too is joining "the world in mourning" her late husband.

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