Gabrielle Union is mourning the loss of her father, Sylvester “Cully” Union Jr.
The actress’ father passed away Friday morning (April 3) at the age of 81 after a difficult battle with dementia. A day later, he took to Instagram to write a lengthy tribute, speaking about the devastating progression of the disease.
“No matter how much you think you know about dementia, nothing prepares you for the slow, painful disappearance of your loved one,” she wrote, describing the heartbreaking reality of watching them fade away. “The ones you know get smaller and smaller… It’s brutal and it’s what he experienced, but it wasn’t who he was.”
But beyond the pain, Union made sure to celebrate the man he was. The 53-year-old remembered her father as someone who “never met a stranger, only friends he hadn’t met yet,” a die-hard Nebraska fan who instilled in her values of teamwork, resilience and compassion. He also reflected on his growth over the years, noting that he “acknowledged his imperfections, apologized and made amends.”
Union also thanked those who cared for him in his final years, including medical staff and his sisters, calling them “heroes.”
The tribute was accompanied by a touching video montage featuring clips of Sylvester singing, celebrating and spending time with family.
Sylvester Union Jr. had battled dementia for years and was placed in memory care in 2023, something Union had previously shared with fans.
“It’s disconcerting to feel relief that the pain is over,” the tribute continued, “but it’s deeply anguished at the end of their time. I know I’m not the first or the last daddy’s girl to go through this, and I’m sending love and healing to anyone grieving the loss of a parent. I know their love is eternal and will find me in every area.”
