Jennifer Garner has had a difficult few years, particularly following her divorce from Ben Affleck, but this was truly tragic.
Jennifer Garner’s father, William Garner, 85, departed from this life “peacefully” on Saturday. Jennifer is mourning.
“We were with him, singing ‘Amazing Grace’ as he left us (did we carry him across or scare him away — valid question),” the 51-year-old Suddenly 30 actress said on Instagram, according to Page Six.
“Although the passing of an 85-year-old man who led a healthy, fulfilling life is not tragic, I am aware that grief is inevitable and can appear out of the blue.”
In spite of his dying, Garner said she was “grateful” for her father’s “gentle demeanor and quiet strength” in her thoughts on his life.
She went on, “For the way he invented the role of all-in, ever-patient girl dad, and for how he teased with a mischievous smile.” “His leadership, work ethic, and faith are greatly appreciated.”
She also thanked the doctors and nurses who cared for her father in his final few months of life.
“Your care allowed Dad to live longer and spend more time in his favorite places: with his daughters and grandchildren, supporting his beloved Aggies, steering a boat, and most importantly, beside our mother, his wife of 59 years,” the actress went on.
“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. My sisters and I will never be done talking about how wonderful he was, so bear with us.”
Garner concluded the touching letter with a handful of never-before-seen photos from her early years and fun travels with her father.
Garner recounted memories of their happiest moments, like picnics with watermelon and family portraits.
She also attached a 2016 credit card commercial with her and William in it.
One of the celebrities and fans who shared their condolences in the comments area was talk show host Kelly Ripa, who said, “What a lovely tribute.” I send my sympathies to you and your loved ones.
“I’m so sorry, Jen. Sending you lots of love and strength.” Rachel Zoe, a fashion designer, went on, “He was the kindest most gentle sweet man.”
“Sending you and your whole family the most love, light, and hugs,” actress Lily Collins stated.
“Aw babe sending you my love and prayers for you and your family,” said Eva Longoria.
Along with William, her mother Patricia Ann, sisters Susannah and Melissa, and other family members, Garner grew up in West Virginia.
Jen shares details of a “very public, very hard” time.
The actress celebrated her wedding anniversary in January by posting a sweet picture of herself and her parents in front of a flowery wall.
She wrote an adorable tribute, “Mum and Dad, for giving my sisters and me such a secure, happy start to life,” and wished them a happy 59th anniversary.