Actress Gabrielle Union-Wade has posted an emotional tribute to her late father after 81-year-old Sylvester “Cully” Union Jr. succumbed to dementia this weekend.
He is survived by his 78-year-old wife, Theresa, and three daughters, Gabrielle, Kelly, and Tracy.
52-year-old Union-Wade posted the tribute to her Instagram, with a lengthy but poignant caption:
“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. 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,” started the tribute.
“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 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.
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.”