Jennifer Garner has had a difficult few years, including her divorce from Ben Affleck, and this was a true tragedy. William Garner, Jennifer Garner’s 85-year-old father, died “peacefully” on Saturday, March 30.

Jennifer is grieving. The 51-year-old Suddenly 30 actress wrote on Instagram, “We were with him, singing ‘Amazing Grace’ as he left us (did we carry him across or scare him away — valid question),” according to Page Six.”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 expressed “gratitude” for her father’s “gentle demeanor and quiet strength” in her views on his life, despite his death.”For how he teased with a mischievous smile, and for the way he invented the role of all in, ever patient girl dad,” she went on. “We are grateful for his work ethic, leadership and faith.” She also thanked the medical team that cared for her father in his final months of life.

“Your care extended Dad’s life and gave him time to be in his favourite 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 Mum,” the actress added.

“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.”

Garner concluded the poignant statement with a collection of never-before-seen photos from her early years and delightful excursions with her father. Garner recounted memories of their greatest experiences, including family photos and picnics where they shared watermelon.