Gabrielle Union is grieving the loss of her father, Sylvester “Cully” Union Jr.
The actress’ father died on Friday morning (April 3) at the age of 81 after a difficult battle with dementia. A day later, she took to Instagram to write a lengthy tribute in which she opened up about the disease’s devastating progression.
“No matter how much you think you know about dementia, nothing prepares you for the painfully slow disappearance of your loved one,” she wrote, describing the heartbreaking reality of watching him disappear. “The ones you know become less and less… It’s brutal and that’s what he experienced, but that’s not who he was.”
But beyond the pain, Union made sure to celebrate the man he was. The 53-year-old remembered his father as someone who “never met a stranger, just friends he hadn’t met yet,” a die-hard Nebraska fan who instilled values of teamwork, resilience and compassion. She 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 her 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 been battling dementia for years and was placed in memory care in 2023, something Union previously shared with fans.
“It is confusing to feel relief that the pain is over,” the tribute continued, “but deep heartache at the end of his time. I know I am not the first or last daddy’s girl to go through this, and I send love and healing to all who suffer the loss of a parent. I know his love is eternal and will find me in all worlds.”
