NEW YORK, NEW YORK – APRIL 29: Gabrielle Union attends the Prime Video’s “The Idea Of You” New York premiere at Jazz at Lincoln Center on April 29, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Cindy Ord/Getty Images)

Gabrielle Union recently suffered a devastating family loss with the passing of her father, Sylvester “Cully” Union Jr, after a long battle with Dementia. He was just 81 years old. On April 4, the actress to took Instagram, offering a heartfelt tribute to her late father. “Yesterday morning, my Dad, Sylvester “Cully” Union Jr., passed away. No matter how much you think you know about dementia, nothing prepares you for the painfully slow disappearing of your loved one,” she began the lengthy post.

The actress noted that when dealing with a family member with Dementia, things start off slow. “First it’s repeating words or forgetting little things here or there,” then “BOOM, he can’t swallow or walk.” The actress continued: “You hold out hope for sustained eye contact or a smile; even a hand squeeze can make you feel like they could come back to you “normal” at any second.”

“No one was ever left behind or unseen,” Union Says

“Through every step of his life, my Dad was surrounded by love and support from his ever-growing village. I swear he never met a stranger, just friends he hadn’t met yet,” she added. The actress also recalled all things she learned from her father such as “the values of teamwork, a fierce work ethic, and that you are only as strong as your weakest link, so tend to them first.”

Union acknowledges that while her father may not have been perfect, he left lasting impact on who she is today. “My Dad was a perfectly imperfect man and father. Over time he evolved, acknowledged his imperfections, apologized, and made amends for as long as it took for the hurts to heal. He made it his business to look after everyone. He loved our friends too and treated them like his sons and daughters. No one was ever left behind or unseen,” Union says.