Inside Gabrielle Union’s father’s death and Sylvester’s battle with dementia, in her own words<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\nAmerican actress and model Gabrielle Union’s father, Sylvester ‘Coolie’ Union Jr., has been declared dead after battling dementia and the initial news came via his official Instagram account.<\/p>\n
The post that shared it all featured not only a video and photo collage showcasing his life, his legacy and everything he achieved, including candid family moments, but also some photos of him with his grandchildren. <\/p>\n
The accompanying post was long and detailed, reading, “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 disappearance of your loved one. At first it’s repeating words or forgetting little things here or there, then boom, he can’t swallow or walk. The little ones you know are And you expect constant eye contact or a smile; even a handshake can make you feel like they’re back to ‘normal’ at any moment, but that’s not what it was.”<\/p>\n
Discussing the slow decline he experienced, he also said, “Every step of his life, my dad was surrounded by the love and support of his 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 value of teamwork, a fierce work ethic, and that you’re only as strong as your weakest link, so look after him first.”<\/p>\n
“My dad was a perfectly imperfect man and father. Over time he evolved, he acknowledged his imperfections, apologized and made amends until the hurt healed. He made it his business to take care of everyone. He also loved our friends and treated them like his own sons and daughters. No one was left behind or overlooked.”<\/p>\n
She didn’t stop there and praised her father, saying, “My parents were the first colleagues and companions I saw working, 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.”<\/p>\n
She also said, “I am grateful for all who stepped up to care, nurture, and love her in her final years. My family and I are forever grateful to the medical and memory care staff who made sure she had the best care. My sisters who stepped forward are heroes, and I love you both beyond words.”<\/p>\n
“She didn’t even conclude like that and instead made the situation interactive by opening the comments section and saying, “PS: If you know my dad, please share in the comments. Our family will cherish it.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n