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Gabrielle Union honours father’s legacy following his death from dementia
The 'Bad Boys 2' star reflects on the slow, painful effects of dementia and the toll it took on her family
Gabrielle Union is sharing her heartbreak and gratitude following the death of her father, Sylvester “Cully” Union Jr., who passed away at 81 on April 3 after a long battle with dementia.
The 53-year-old actress reflected on her “bewildering” mix of emotions in an Instagram post, admitting the simultaneous relief that her father’s suffering had ended and the profound sadness at his loss.
“It’s bewildering to feel relief that the pain has ended, but profound heartbreak at the finality of his time,” she wrote.
Union candidly described the slow, painful progression of dementia and its impact on both her father and her family.
“No matter how much you think you know about dementia, nothing prepares you for the painfully slow disappearing of your loved one…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. It’s brutal and it’s what he experienced, but it wasn’t who he was,” she said.
She celebrated her father’s life and legacy, highlighting the values he instilled.
“A lifelong, die-hard Nebraska fan, he taught me 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 shared.
“My Dad was a perfectly imperfect man and father…He made it his business to look after everyone. No one was ever left behind or unseen.”
Union also expressed gratitude for the people who supported her father in his final years, including medical staff, caregivers, and her sisters.
“I am grateful for all who stepped up in his final years to care, nurture, and love on him. My family and I are eternally grateful for the medical and memory care staff…My sisters who stepped up are heroes, and I love you both beyond words,” she wrote.
Through her reflections, Union honored not just her father’s life but the love and guidance he provided, leaving a lasting imprint on her family and those who knew him.
