Jennifer Garner is mourning the loss of her father.
On Monday, the 13 Going on 30 star announced that her father William John Garner sadly passed away at 85 years old over the weekend. She wrote in a poignant post:
“My dad passed peacefully Saturday afternoon. We were with him, singing Amazing Grace as he left us (did we carry him across or scare him away — valid question.) While there is no tragedy in the death of an 85 year old man who lived a healthy, wonderful life, I know grief is unavoidable, waiting around unexpected corners.”
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How beautifully gut-wrenching. However, Jennifer is choosing to be thankful for the amazing life he led and the legacy he left behind. She added:
“Today is for gratitude. We are grateful for Dad’s gentle demeanor and quiet strength. For how he teased with a mischievous smile, and for the way he invented the role of all in, ever patient girl dad. We are grateful for his work ethic, leadership and faith.”
So sweet. It’s clear what a great man he was. William was also father to Jennifer’s sisters, Melissa and Susannah.
The Daredevil actress also shared her thanks to his medical team, who “extended” his life:
“We extend our gratitude to the medical communities of Charleston Area Medical Center and City of Hope. Your care extended Dad’s life and gave him time to be in his favorite spots — surrounded by daughters and grandchildren, cheering for his beloved Aggies, captaining a boat, and — most of all — next to his wife of 59 years, our Mom.”
Wow, 59 years with Jennifer’s mom Patricia Ann? She must be devastated.
The Juno star concluded:
“There is so much to say about my dad — my sisters and I will never be done talking about how wonderful he was, so bear with us — but for today I share these memories with my appreciation for the kind and brilliant man, father, and grandfather he was, as well as the loving legacy he left behind.”
Scroll through her carousel of photos with her late poppa (below):
In the comments, fans and celebs alike rushed in with words of support. See some of their comments (below):
Reese Witherspoon: “My sweet friend … sending you all my angels to help carry him home.”
Sharon Stone: “My condolences We did the same for my dad Such love”
Lily Collins: “Sending you and your whole family the most love and light and hugs”
Elizabeth Banks: “Sending light and love your way. May his memory always be a blessing.”
Yara Shahidi: “What a beautiful tribute to a beautiful person so sorry for your loss”
Our hearts are with the Garner family during this difficult time! Share your support in the comments down below.
[Images via Jennifer Garner/Instagram & CBS/YouTube]
