Jennifer Garner paid heartfelt tribute to her father, William Garner, after announcing his passing yesterday, April 1.

In a statement on social media, Garner, 51, shared that her father had died aged 85, describing the feelings of grief as “unavoidable” and “waiting around unexpected corners.”

By all accounts the Hollywood star shared a strong bond with her father, and in January celebrated her parents’ 59th wedding anniversary with a heartwarming post on Instagram.

Sharing a selection of family photos on social media yesterday, Garner wrote:

“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.”

Garner went on to express gratitude for her father’s long life and “gentle demeanor.”

“We are grateful for Dad’s gentle demeanor and quiet strength,” the actress added.

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.”

As per reports, William Garner had always played a key role in his daughter’s life – it’s clear to anyone who knows anything about the 51-year-old that she’s enjoyed a deep bond with her parents.

In September of last year, Garner made headlines after surprising her father with a touching gift for his 85th birthday.

Garner traveled back to her hometown of Charleston, West Virginia for a fleeting visit, where she’d planned something special to celebrate her dad’s big day; a ride in the car of his childhood, from all the way back in 1948.

“Dad’s early birthday surprise: a ride in his childhood car — 1948 Studebaker Champion — with kind and generous David King,” Garner wrote on Instagram at the time, along with a photo of the father-daughter duo posing next to the vehicle in question.

Our thoughts are with Jennifer Garner at this difficult time. Leave a comment if you want to send a message of love and support.