Gabrielle Unions Father Dies at 81 After Dementia

Sylvester 'Cully' Union Jr., the father of actress , has died at age 81 following a battle with dementia. 

Gabrielle announced his passing with a heartbreaking tribute remembering the 'perfectly imperfect man and father' and the decline he endured that 'nothing' could prepare her for. 

The tribute was accompanied by photos and videos of her father over the years, touching memories that included footage of Sylvester singing, dancing, and spending time with family. 

'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 posted. 

'First it’s repeating words or forgetting little things here or there, then BOOM, he can’t swallow or walk. The them that you know gets smaller and smaller. 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.

'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. A lifelong, die-hard 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.

'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.

'My parents were the first allies and comrades I saw in action, and I vowed to follow in their footsteps. My Dad also loved to party, ALWAYS the life of EVERY party. He loved music, traveling the world, and spending time with extended family and friends.

'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 who ensured he had the best care. My sisters who stepped up are heroes, and I love you both beyond words.

'It’s bewildering to feel relief that the pain has ended, but profound heartbreak at the finality of his time. I know I’m not the first or last Daddy’s girl to go through this, and I’m sending love and healing to anyone suffering the loss of a parent. I know his love is eternal and will find me in every realm.

'PS: If you knew my Dad, please share in the comments. Our family will cherish.'

The tribute was flooded with comments sending their condolences, including a sweet message from Sylvester's son-in-law and Gabrielle's husband, Dwyane Wade.

'My guy,' he commented, along with three heart emojis.  

Dwyane posted the same tribute video to his own account with the message: 'Thank you for all the memories pops (heart emoji) you.'